The year was 1996. Jared and Katie were enrolled in the two-year-old nursery class at the Plainview Co-Op. The two played on the playground and sat next to each other for the class picture, but had no idea what their relationship would become. They spent the next 15 years of school waving at each other in the hallways, and on one occasion, Jared even tried (and failed) to get Katie’s number on the school bus. Their friendship changed when Jared and Katie enrolled in yet another class together – 12th grade AP Physics. Katie laughed at Jared’s jokes in class and Jared cheered for Katie on the softball field. They eventually went on a first date at Moe’s and then spent the next summer as regulars at the local fro-yo joint. As summer came to an end, the two went their separate ways and left for college. Everyone thought that was the end of it… until Thanksgiving break. On November 22nd, 2012, Jared and Katie realized they truly loved each other, and the rest was history.

Seven long years later, on August 24th, 2019, Jared and Katie woke up very early in the morning (5:30 AM). So far, this was no different than any other day. Unbeknownst to Katie (actually she had a feeling), Jared had plans. As a “spur of the moment” idea, Jared suggested they go for a walk in the nearby Massapequa Preserve, their favorite spot. Knowing nobody would be there at 6 AM, Jared slipped the ring in his pocket and they went on their merry way. After a short walk and some nervous conversation, Jared picked his spot. They came to a stop and looked out over the water. Jared, nervous as all heck, got down on his knee, removed the box from his pocket, and said the magic words. “Of course I’ll marry you!”, Katie exclaimed and jumped for joy (see video). Unfortunately, they couldn’t tell any loved ones yet, as they were still sleeping, but they were overjoyed to finally be engaged and to spend the rest of their lives together. Can’t wait to celebrate in September 2021!