It all started with a smile. Laurelanne swiped right because she couldn’t help but be captivated by Michael’s smile. And Michael swiped right because he noticed the effort she’d put into her profile. It’s funny how something as simple as a smile and a few thoughtful words can set everything in motion. Laurelanne was the first to message him, but she accidentally ghosted him for a few days. It wasn’t intentional; she had her notifications turned off, and before she knew it, time had gotten away from her. When she finally responded, it felt like they’d never missed a beat. Their first “date” wasn’t what either of them expected. But after a re-do at Chili's a few days later, they couldn't stop seeing each other. Even if it was only for a few minutes, they ended up meeting in the parking lot of Nardelli’s—him between shifts at work, and her after her shift at Lake Compounce. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real, and somehow, it felt perfect. They didn’t need anything more than that moment together. Then, on June 26th, 2019, Michael officially asked Laurelanne to be his girlfriend. There was no grand gesture—just a simple, sweet moment that felt like the start of something much bigger. Over the next seven years, they made countless memories together. They took family trips to Maine with Laurelanne’s parents (and if you know, you know!). They found their first home together, and now, they’re preparing for their wedding. From that first smile to where they are now, it’s been an incredible journey—one that feels as if it was always meant to be.