We're Getting Married

Kellie's Story: Matthew and I first started talking on November 17th, 2020. Matthew was the first to message me, and after three tries, I finally responded—haha! From the very first conversation, it felt like we’d known each other for years. Our chats were effortless and fun, and before I knew it, I was the one making the move—I asked him out for a date that Saturday. For our first date, we went out for dinner and then watched a movie. That night, I knew something special was happening, especially after I let my quirky side show. There was this one moment where I thought I had completely blown it—but then Matthew burst into laughter, and we couldn’t stop. In that instant, I realized I could truly be myself around him, and that’s what I love most about our relationship—there’s no judgment, just two people being real with each other. That first date marked the beginning of our love story, and after that, we were inseparable. These past four years have been the best of my life. We've traveled to so many amazing places, moved into our first apartment together, and even adopted our second dog, Ellie (after some convincing—Matthew finally caved!). We bought our first home, started new jobs, celebrated promotions, and shared countless anniversaries and birthdays. But this year, Matthew gave me the most incredible surprise of all—a magical proposal in Italy on May 24, 2024. It was a moment beyond my wildest dreams and will forever be one of the most special days of my life. Matthew is the kindest, most caring, and loving partner I could ever ask for, not to mention the best dog dad. I feel truly blessed to share my life with him. He brings out the very best in me, and I’m lucky to call him not just my partner, but my best friend Matthew's Story: November 17th, 2020. The day my life changed forever. Leading up to this day, I had made a couple of attempts at starting a conversation with Kellie. No luck. I was about to give up, but thought "3rd time is the charm", and it was. November 17th, 2020 was the first time Kellie and I started speaking. The conversation was effortless, everything flowed so easily, and we found ourselves messaging back and forth constantly. Everything was going great, then SHE asked ME out on a date. I was nervous, and hesitant, but we went, and it was the best decision I have ever made. After the 1st date, we had a 2nd a couple of days later, then a 3rd at Splitsville at Sparkman Wharf in Tampa, yes we went bowling. That was the day I could tell this was different, and Kellie was special. From that day on, we were inseparable, we spent basically every day together, and life started moving forward. We have moved into an apartment together, got new jobs, got another dog (I took some convincing), traveled together, Kellie graduated with her Masters Degree. Fast forward to now, we own our first home together, and are engaged to be married. I'll never forget the moment Kellie said yes. I had known for a long time that she was the one I wanted to spend my life with, but I wanted to create the perfect moment for us. A trip to Italy seemed like a pretty opportune moment. On May 24th, 2024, overlooking the city of Rome, I asked Kellie to be my wife. When she said yes, I experienced the most pure form of happiness that I had ever felt. It has truly been the best day of my life to date. Kellie is the most caring, loving, funny, goofy, happy and supportive person in the world. She is my number one fan. She makes me the best form of myself, always encourages and pushes me to be my best, and I know that she will always be there for me. The best part of our relationship since day 1 is that we could always be our true selves with each other. She is truly my best friend and my soulmate, and I cannot wait to spend my life with her!