It all started in November 2021 at a WVU tailgate while Madison’s mom and stepdad were visiting. In true Madison fashion, she spotted a guy holding a funny t-shirt and very casually asked if she could take a picture of it. She didn’t even notice the guy holding it, and definitely didn’t remember what he looked like at the time. Little did she know… the guy holding that shirt was John. Talk about an invisible string moment. Fast forward to January 2022. Madison’s good friend Emily was coming into town and asked if she could bring her boyfriend, Hayden, and his roommates. “Of course!” Madison said. “Meet us at the Sports Page.” That’s when it happened. As soon as they walked in, Madison noticed one of Hayden’s roommates was very cute. She leaned over and told Emily exactly that. Emily, being the good friend she is, immediately told him, and from that moment on, it was sparks. That cute roommate? The same guy from the tailgate with the t-shirt. John. From the very beginning, something felt different. The way they looked at each other, the way they made each other feel so special, they just knew. It didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t just another night out. It was the start of forever. And the rest is history.

As John and Maddie were approaching their four-year anniversary, John told her he was planning a special night in Pittsburgh, dinner at the beautiful Monterey Bay Fish Grotto, followed by a fun night out. Maddie assumed maybe the casino… or a dive bar somewhere in the city. Either way, she was excited. The day finally arrived, sunny, 65 degrees, and not a cloud in the sky. After a week of heavy snow and rain, it truly felt like a blessing. They arrived at the Duquesne Incline and rode the historic red cable car up Mount Washington, overlooking the entire city of Pittsburgh. At the top, they made their way to the restaurant, ready to enjoy an extravagant anniversary dinner. As big foodies, a five-star meal in the Steel City wasn’t out of the ordinary for them, just one more reason to celebrate....she didn't suspect a thing. They were seated right in front of the window, with a breathtaking view of the skyline. Cocktails, laughter, incredible food, it was perfect. The waiter even surprised them with a complimentary dessert to celebrate their anniversary. As the sun began to set over the city, everything felt magical. After dinner, they walked back toward the incline to ride down the mountain. John began saying all the right things to Maddie, how beautiful she was, how much she has changed his life...it was so sweet. But before heading back, John suggested going to the overlook one last time. Maddie, happily going with the flow, said yes. They stood together, watching the sunset paint the sky. That’s when John pointed into the distance. “See that hotel over there? Overlooking the water?” “Yes?” Maddie replied. “That’s where we’re staying tonight.” Maddie was in disbelief. What a generous anniversary surprise! A night in Pittsburgh? She jumped with joy, thanking him over and over. Then John said, “I also have a question for you.” He got down on one knee, pulled out the ring, and said, “You are everything to me. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?” Through happy tears, Maddie jumped into his arms and said the easiest word she’s ever said - YES! It was a beautiful moment, secretly captured by Maddie’s sister (in disguise!) so she wouldn’t suspect a thing. After photos, laughter, and lots of tears, Courtney asked if they wanted to grab a celebratory drink at Steel Mill Saloon across the street. Maddie excitedly said yes, and when they walked in, John had one more surprise waiting: their entire family. It was the most thoughtful, intentional, and unforgettable night, celebrating love, surrounded by the people who mean the most, admiring the ring and dancing the night away. The perfect beginning to forever. 💍✨