Bride
Bored of lying in bed waiting for my brain injury to subside, I decided to give dating apps a try (more for something to do than actually being serious about finding a husband.) About two texts into talking, Matt suddenly texted "digits?" I immediately thought, "oh he's a weirdo" but when he followed up with "listen, I realize that was probably awkward but if you're the one, I don't want to waste another minute", I was intrigued. So we went on a hayride date..where I proceeded to tell Matt I was unemployed, disabled, and living with my mother. I think Matt really stole my heart when he said "that doesn't scare me." It was the first of many things he's said over our relationship to make me feel safe. He says and does a lot of weird things too, like the time he blew up at me in a diner because we differed on our opinion of milk (never tell him you don't drink milk) or how he tried to pretend that he was playing PokemonGo with his nephew so I wouldn't think he was a loser, and frankly his choice of tube socks over ankle socks. But with each new date, he continued to make me feel loved, seen, and important. He always believed that I'd get better, and he's been my biggest cheerleader since day one. I knew I was in love with Matt about 2 months in. I knew I'd marry him at 3 months. At 4 months, we were wondering how early was too early to move in together and at 6 months we were talking kids, homes and marriage. At 14, we were engaged. Clearly, I cannot wait for forever to begin.
Groom
My plan was to produce the lamest dad joke I could think of. Her response was a laugh/cry emoji that would spark the beginning of a wonderful life together. Our first date confirmed my big fear: she was way out of my league. Better enjoy it, then! She was dressed in a very heroic Han Solo outfit and last season’s Vans. She wasn’t the goofy one – I was. Later on (and much to my relief), I’d learn she was hiding her inner weirdo. I was on cloud nine. Then somehow, a second date transpired. And then a third? I can’t say I was surprised – honestly, who could resist a guy that wears tube socks and lives on Ellios pizza? We rolled the dice and spent a long weekend alone together in the Poconos, and we wanted more. Then Texas. Finally, some blips along the way: my horrendous city driving, Chelsea’s cellulitis, my chewing loudly -- nothing we can’t power through. Then our first home project together, and she moves in shortly after. Chelsea gives “redecoration” new meaning (RIP my red wall). But we also get a new furry family member (besides Chelsea)!! Summer of ‘22 one of the best I can recall -- meeting her family & vacationing at the Shore. When I met her Philly friends, they all seem so familiar to me. Our personalities just click. Finally, Christmas. Officially asking her hand. This woman is my world and my perfect match in every way. Despite our OBVIOUS peculiarities, two big weirdos find themselves lucky in love.