Our story began in February of 2013, when two high school sophomores crossed paths at a Canfield basketball game. We had mutual friends, but something about that night set everything in motion. We exchanged numbers, and from then on, our days started with “good morning” texts and ended with “good night,” sprinkled with FaceTimes whenever we could find an excuse. When Marco showed up to Krista’s sweet sixteen, our friends started whispering about a spark—one we were trying very hard not to admit. But by that summer, it was impossible to ignore how much we loved spending time together. On August 5, 2013, we finally made it official. Even though we were from different “Cardinal” high schools, we made sure to be at every football game, basketball game, and dance together. Twelve dances later—homecomings, sweethearts, and proms—we had created a perfect little world of teenage memories, complete with Krista’s favorite part: the dances, of course. When high school ended, we moved into the next chapter side by side at Youngstown State University. Between studying, late-night homework sessions, and early classes, we became each other’s biggest support system. We squeezed in as much fun as possible—YSU tailgates, boating days, and snow skiing whenever we got the chance. In May 2020, we graduated college together. Through the years, we traveled anywhere we could—Tennessee, Florida, Punta Cana, and many more spots that became pieces of our shared story. But one trip would change everything. For Christmas in 2021, Marco surprised Krista with a getaway to Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya—our first true one-on-one vacation. Neither of us knew just how special it would become. On April 17, 2022, the Riviera Maya sun was shining, and we started our morning with a beach walk and breakfast. Marco told Krista that we’d been selected for a “photo shoot” that afternoon, and Krista spent the next hour getting ready while Marco tried very hard not to look as nervous as he felt. When we met up again, Marco suggested taking a shot to calm his nerves, but Krista—fresh hair and makeup—politely declined. Moments later, the concierge arrived and blindfolded Krista. As we walked toward the beach, people cheered—because Marco had already shared the big plan with the friends he made at the pool that morning. When the blindfold came off, Marco was already on one knee, with “Will you marry me?” written in the sand. There were roses, champagne, a photographer who captured every second, and more happy tears than we could count. We spent the night celebrating with a candlelit dinner on the beach, feeling like we were living a dream. We still talk about the moment like it happened yesterday—and we can’t wait to go back someday to relive it all. Now, after thirteen years of growing up together, laughing together, traveling together, and loving each other through every chapter, we are finally ready for the biggest celebration of all. September 5, 2026 The day we say “I do.” The day thirteen years in the making finally arrives. We cannot wait to celebrate with the people who have been part of our story from the beginning. Get ready to dance the night away with us!