It was a rivalry for the ages. A 32 year old east sider meets a 26 year old west sider. While at the airport in 2018, Kate was running out of ways to stay entertained waiting for a flight. She decided to swipe through Bumble. Who knows, maybe she would find someone to chat with, never thinking it would amount to anything. She quickly swiped through all her options, which were pretty slim under her picky criteria (i.e. must be within 10 miles, must be over 27). It was in that moment of boredom, she made the a decision that would change her life forever… she opened her parameters to 26 years old. At the same time, a stunning, young roofer was making his way to the airport. He decided to get on Bumble; typically very focused, he was a little distracted today. Something was telling him the love of his life was a swipe away. Ryan came across a cute blonde realtor from Shaker Heights. He swiped right without any idea how that that swipe would change their lives forever. Now for the courtship…

Kate and Ryan chatted all week while she was out of town. Conversation was easy and seemingly never ending. They planned their first date the following Wednesday but Ryan was called to work and had to cancel. Kate was devastated but also a little skeptical. She felt it was too good to be true and convinced herself he was a fake profile. No one that charming, attractive, and funny was single. Certainly not in Cleveland. Ryan assured her that he was indeed real and living in Cleveland and wanted to see her on Friday. Kate reluctantly agreed. She needed something to do, all of her friends were out of town anyway. They met at Pinecrest for a beer. Kate was nervous and was a little too talkative but Ryan didn’t seem to mind. One beer turned into 4 and some pizza. The date was a blast and a second date filled with chicken wings and golf was in the works. Contrary to Kate’s preconceived notions about Ryan, he was everything she wanted. He was super fun to be around, loved sports, had an infectious personality, great sense of humor, mature, and just overall a well-rounded man. The two spent more together. It was going great. After successfully meeting each others families, it was time for the real test, meeting the friends. Kate invited Ryan to play on her two hand touch football team. She was nervous. It would never work out if he sucked at touch football! Ryan was on fire! Arguably the MVP, scoring the winning touchdown with seconds left. Her team, The Tummies, officially welcomed the newest member to the team. Kate was ecstatic! Soon thereafter Ryan invited Kate to tailgate an Ashland football game with his friends. Maybe it was the day drinking. Maybe it was the football or the crisp fall fresh air. Or maybe it was the late night Taco Bell but it became clear that day. While on their way to crunch wrap supremes and cheesy gordita crunches, Ryan said I love you.

September 9, 2021 was a very long workday for Kate. She was exhausted but excited for a large family dinner with her parents, Ryan’s parents, close family friends, Joe and Diana, and Matt, Nancy, and her niece Ellie. They were in town from California for the first time since December 2019. Little did Kate know what was in the works. They arrived at Shaker Heights Country Club and seated at a huge table in the ballroom. Kate thought nothing of the accommodations. Maybe they wanted us to socially distance and at least Ellie could run around the large ballroom. Cathy suggested having cocktails outside. After moving to the patio, the waiter brought out two bottles of Champagne. Kate, still oblivious assumed it was to celebrate a great trip with Matt and Nancy but Ryan was noticeably missing. Kate thought for a second, maybe "it’s” happening but quickly dismissed the thought. Ryan arrived with some flowers and announced he was making a toast. It wasn’t till a quick glance at Diana whose face gave it away that Kate realized what was happening. Shock took over, she couldn't believe it. Kate loves surprises and Ryan pulled it off! In the romantic moment of Ryan getting on one knee, Kate shrieked, “Holy Shit.” She was taking it all in and almost forgot to say yes! The two enjoyed a romantic moment after Ryan stood up. Kate having belly full of bubbles and incredibly excited, announced, “I'm going to puke.” Ryan’s nerves, excitement, and after anxiously awaiting this moment responded, “Me too!” The two kissed, hugged, and shared some tears. The greatest part of the proposal was that both families could be there to witness it. The ring was ordered but not ready yet. Ryan knew how much it would mean to have the family there for this moment and he was right. It was perfect.