We both grew up in Westlake, Ohio, and even though went to the same middle school, we never met each other. Even with so many friends in common, we traveled in completely different circles - Joseph in band and sports, and Michele immersed in books, friends and parties. How many times did we pass each other in the hallway or the lunchroom?? Our lives took us on parallel roads, without ever crossing over the coming years. Over 30 years later, we connected on Facebook, staying Facebook friends, but not in real life. When we both found ourselves single, Michele took a chance and shot her shot, and Joseph accepted. We finally met face to face and have been pretty inseparable ever since - through the good, great, challenging, and heartbroken times. With both of us having been married before, we knew what we wanted this time. Joseph brings his positive thinking, reliability, and strength to our relationship, while Michele brings her support, realism, and spontaneity. You could say we waited our whole lives to meet each other. On August 5th, 2023, Joseph proposed at Pier W on a cold, windy, and smokey day in Cleveland. Michele (who may or may not have been tipped off) was ready to say yes. The weather was terrible, but it truly did not matter when Joseph dropped down on one knee and asked Michele to marry him. We value our time on our own, with our friends, and our family - whether it involves going to a Cleveland sports game, dining out, listening to live music, or grouped on a patio. The love and support we have received from all of you who will be attending our wedding is truly cherished by us. We definitely would not be here without all of you!