Laura and AJ's story began when they matched on, not one, but TWO dating apps. After Laura “ghosted” AJ on Hinge, only a few weeks passed before the lovebirds matched on Tinder as well, leading to a first date at the local beer garden. Sparks flew at first sight as the date went on to a second location, a local pub that has since became a regular hang out spot for the two. Even on that first date, it became immediately clear that Laura and AJ had found someone they could be themselves around; joking, teasing, laughing. The highlight of that first date was AJ saying he didn't drink coffee at the time because it made him anxious, to which Laura quipped without missing a beat, "is it the coffee or are you mentally ill?" AJ was hooked. Then life intervened. After a few months of weekly dates, AJ and Laura had a brief break from seeing each other because they were young and confused back then (it happens to the best of us!). AJ reached out to Laura a couple months later realizing they made a mistake and that they wanted to be together. The rest, as they say, is history! Amidst rising COVID cases near the end of 2021, the couple opted to celebrate a cozy New Year’s Eve together – which may or may not have resulted in two vicious hangovers! They explored in the Wissahickon, through hikes, walks, and runs. They tried new spots in Manayunk, breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants. Laura and AJ quite liked this life they were building together so they made their love official on March 6th, 2022 after a boozy brunch which led to playing Just Dance and Wii Sports on AJ's porch for the whole neighborhood to see. Since that day the couple has moved in together, making a shared and loving space out of their Manayunk row home. Their dog, Reesie, loves having her two favorite people under the same roof. They’ve been to many Marmion family weddings, trips to Sea Isle with the Litchfields, Italy with the Pozarnys, and much more. There was only one thing missing: a ring. On April 18, 2025, AJ popped the question while on a walk in the Wissahickon park, a deeply sentimental place to the couple. Laura, caught completely by surprise, said "YES!" after sobbing happy tears and gasping at the sight of her sapphire ring. Laura and AJ will continue their love story when they are wed in the very park that has been the setting for so many memories. Please join them on September 5, 2026, at the Valley Green Inn. They cannot wait to celebrate with you.