Matt and Monique worked together at Agava Restaurant in Ithaca, NY. Monique was a hostess and Matt was a floor assistant. Little did we know, that this work relationship would foreshadow their dynamic as a couple---Monique does the planning and Matt does the heavy lifting. ;)

Despite cupid's (AKA Lindsey Hadlock/Knewstub's) attempt at planting the seeds by guilting Matt to buy Monique a birthday gift after she had moved to Rochester, encouraging Monique to invite Matt out every time she was visiting Ithaca, and even setting up a romantic date for two in her own apartment, Matt remained "friend-zoned" for FOUR years. Ironically enough, Matt states that his "almost-first-kiss" with Monique was interrupted by Lindsey herself.

After FOUR long years, with a little help from both Lindsey Hadlock & Chance Leib, Matt finally left the friend zone and kissed Monique at the top of the stairs at the Watson lake house in Ithaca.

Despite what Matt may claim, Monique, did in fact say "I love you" first while at the wedding of Jaime & Max Klein. In return, Matt shared the sentiment and this date has become considered their dating anniversary.

On the Anniversary of their first kiss, Matt proposed to Monique at the lake house while surrounded by some of their closest friends. Monique was absolutely shocked, as her first words were: "is this a joke!? This is a mean prank." [As a side note: Matt was obsessed with the "trend" at that time to do a "fake proposal."] The day was filled with absolute bliss and ended with champagne toasts, the most beautiful moon, & fireworks. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in Albany!