In early 2023, fate swiped right—literally. Eddie and Janine matched on a dating app, but it wasn’t love at first message. After a few missed connections and ignored texts, the spark finally lit over an unexpected topic: funeral flowers. Janine had messaged Eddie about a floral piece, and when he asked if she was a florist, she replied, “Close—I’m a funeral director.” Intrigued, Eddie kept the conversation going, and they quickly realized they had far more in common than expected. Soon, they exchanged numbers. Eddie had been trying to take Janine out for a while, and finally, she said yes. On July 14, 2023, they had their first date at Blu on Staten Island. Janine arrived first and watched Eddie walk up, thinking, “Could he be the one?” Over dinner, they talked about everything—family, work, life, and even a shared fascination with the Titanic. The spark was real. A few days later, Eddie surprised Janine with tickets to the Titanic Exhibit in NYC. “Be at my house by 10 a.m.,” he told her—and she was. They spent the entire day together, ending with a romantic dinner and kisses in the streets of New York. From that day on, everything grew naturally. They explored together—apple picking, wineries, and getaways to New Hope—really getting to know one another. On September 20, 2023, after a perfect fall day, Eddie asked Janine to be his girlfriend, and she happily said yes. Soon after, they planned their first big trip: Disney World for Halloween 2023, spending magical days park hopping and making memories they still talk about. Not long after, Janine moved in with Eddie. The holidays brought new traditions, time with both families, and Eddie becoming “Uncle Eddie” to Janine’s nieces and nephew, who adore him. Then came Europe—23 unforgettable days through Paris, Italy, London, and Ireland. Janine’s parents joined them in Ireland, making it even more special. Back home, life became a blend of love, laughter, and building something real together. But Eddie had one more surprise. In the summer of 2025, he planned a trip back to Italy. They began in Florence, their favorite city, filled with wine windows, incredible meals, and endless gelato. From there, they traveled to Pisa before heading into the Tuscan countryside to visit their favorite winery, Verrazzano. Surrounded by rolling hills, they spent the afternoon sharing wine, fresh bread, olive oil, and charcuterie—soaking in the peaceful, romantic setting that had become so meaningful to them. Their final stop was Ruffino Winery, where Eddie had a plan. During a vineyard tour, he asked Janine to set her phone timer for a photo. As she ran back to pose, she turned to find Eddie on one knee, holding out a ring. “Janine, I love you so much… will you marry me?” Stunned, she asked, “Are you serious?!” But it was all perfectly planned—the staff in on the surprise, a hidden photographer, and champagne waiting. They toasted to their future, shared quiet moments in the vineyard, and called their loved ones to share the news. Janine and Eddie continued the rest of their Italy trip with even more winery visits, enjoying the beauty, romance, and charm of the countryside. But the most meaningful part of the journey came at the very end—Rome. Together, we walked through the Holy Doors at the Vatican, experienced confession, and stayed for Sunday Mass—sharing a deeply spiritual moment we will cherish forever. Eddie had always dreamed of climbing the Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs), believed to be the steps Jesus walked on in Pontius Pilate’s palace before His crucifixion. We climbed them together, on our knees, in prayer and gratitude—an unforgettable, sacred experience. When they returned home, newly engaged, they celebrated with their families—marking the perfect beginning of their next chapter. Now, as they look ahead, they are filled with love, gratitude, and excitement. They can’t wait to celebrate their wedding day with all of you. With love, Eddie & Janine