Mara and James met on a dating app after the second reopening of New York City restaurants due to the COVID-19 pandemic in February of 2021. While the city was re-opening and COVID restrictions were still in place, Mara and James’ love blossomed. Our dates consisted of many long walks, margaritas, beach trips, one shotgun shooting trip and a NJ Housewives House Tour. Both eagerly awaited the opportunities to see one another and always looked forward to the summer season to vacation down at the Jersey Shore. This is where Mara and James’ families both unknowingly vacationed together blocks apart growing up. As time passed, Mara graduated her Master’s program with a degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She then worked a year-long fellowship program in which James stood proudly at her side while working from home through the remaining months of the pandemic. Around the same time, James transitioned into a new job, embracing the next chapter in his career. Amid these big life changes, their relationship continued to flourish. After the fellowship, Mara moved to Rockland County, New York for her first full time role. James, who was already enamored, moved out of Hoboken, New Jersey at the same time just to be closer to her. After spending a year apart, James crossed the border into New York to join Mara, and together they settled into a new shared apartment. Mara and James have been living in peace and harmony since. The next chapter of our story will start on August 16th, 2026.