AJ and Rachel first connected on Hinge, each with their own reasons for swiping right—AJ was drawn to Rachel’s travel photos and saw her as serious relationship material, while Rachel was curious about how a Bay Area native ended up in Macon, Georgia (and thought he was cute). After a few failed attempts to meet, AJ left the next move up to Rachel. They finally met at the Loom Restaurant in Macon while Rachel was recovering from Lasik surgery, which made her self-conscious about her appearance and the need for eye drops. On their first date, Rachel immediately explained her recent surgery and assured AJ she wasn’t looking for free eye advice. They enjoyed a good meal and conversation, with AJ sharing stories about his family and travels. However, at the end of the date, Rachel abruptly said, “gotta go bye!”—a quick exit that happened again on their second date, prompting AJ to decide that a third occurrence would mean no fourth date. Rachel remembers nervously oversharing but also feeling a strong connection through their shared values of family and travel. Wanting to see AJ again, she brought him pastries from his cousin’s San Francisco bakery on her next business trip, ensuring there would be a second date.

AJ purchased a distinctive Ruth Tomlinson engagement ring that both he and Rachel admired for its unique, coral-like design. He kept the ring hidden and, over Memorial Day weekend, spoke with Rachel’s father about his intentions. Although he initially considered proposing during a birthday trip to Destin, friends encouraged him to wait for a more personal moment. Meanwhile, Rachel grew suspicious when her mother suggested a salon visit before the trip, but no proposal occurred. The following weekend, AJ brought the ring to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, hoping to propose on a scenic bench. However, Rachel’s eagerness to explore the gardens made it difficult for him to find the right moment. Two days later, late at night while they were both in pajamas, AJ joked about not having money for a ring as he worked on his computer. When Rachel protested, AJ surprised her by pulling out the ring and proposing right then and there. Krista from KMM Photography, LLC helped them remember and relive the moment in their pajama engagement shoot!