We're getting married!

We met on Hinge in October of 2019 on Abigail’s second day on the app. Abigail made the first move, responding to one of Jared’s prompts that referenced the 2004 masterpiece National Treasure. After exchanging a few messages about our interests and lives in DC, Jared asked Abigail if she would like to continue the conversation at Philz, a coffee shop near Dupont Circle. A casual coffee date turned into a five-hour conversation that ended with Abigail asking Jared for a second date (Jared still cannot believe she did that). It was clear during those early conversations that we shared similar backgrounds, values, and interests: two passionate and joyful Midwesterners in DC hoping to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. It only took a few more dates before we both deleted the Hinge app and leaned into the relationship. The next five years brought many new shared experiences for us: COVID lockdowns; grad school; countless weddings; trips to Italy and Ireland; Abigail learning about basketball; Jared learning about musical theater; new jobs, including Abigail joining Jared at Georgetown; sharing a studio apartment; and even adopting a cat. Each experience only strengthened our connection and reaffirmed our commitment to one another. Jared proposed on October 22, 2024, just a few weeks shy of our fifth dating anniversary. Jared asked Abigail to meet near the site of our first date and to be “dressed for a nice dinner.” We then hopped into a car and headed toward the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Once there, we made our way to the outdoor terrace, which stretches for hundreds of yards in either direction and is covered by beautiful low-hanging willow trees. As we walked around the terrace, Jared shared some reflections on our relationship and hopes for the future. Jared made sure to finish his remarks by getting down on one knee. But the night was just getting started! We then made our way into the theater to attend a special performance that featured two indie folk groups in concert with the National Symphony Orchestra. We made sure to snag a poster on our way out, and it now hangs in our living room above our record player. We are so grateful to each and every one of you for the role that you have played in our lives and in our relationship. We look forward to celebrating with you in October!