Cheers to Forever

Antonio and I first met at a wedding in July 2022, where we were seated at the same table. We spent the night talking, but with life taking us in different directions, we went our separate ways. That night, Antonio told his mom he thought I was really cute. The only problem was he didn’t know my name. He was convinced it was Isabella, which it wasn’t, and even texted the groom trying to figure it out. Over the next year, we randomly ran into each other around New Paltz, always catching up but never staying in touch. Then one night, after my relationship had ended, we ran into each other again. A follow on Instagram led to a train ride to New York City for a Yankees game just a few days later, and from there everything fell into place. What started as a chance meeting turned into something meant to be.

In November, we planned what I thought was just a normal family photoshoot. Both of our families were there, everyone was dressed up, and we were taking pictures like any other day. I didn’t think anything of it. At some point, we were asked to take a few photos just the two of us. I still had no idea what was about to happen. Then all of a sudden, Antonio got down on one knee and started saying the sweetest things. I wish I could tell you exactly what he said, but I completely blacked out from shock and excitement. Not a single word stuck. All I remember is the feeling, and knowing they were the best words I have ever heard. Somewhere between the surprise, the nerves, and all of our families watching, everything just felt right. And in that moment, I knew our forever was beginning.