Holy smokes, we're getting married!

Dan and Mel met in June 2019, as many couples do these days Bumble-ing around. They like to conspire about their first date at the zoo, gazing at a zebra-horse hybrid also known as a zorse. The mutual fascination they felt for the zorse quickly developed into a deeper connection once their eyes and shared humor met. But whether the initial meeting was truly through happenstance at the zoo or through daring vulnerability on a dating app, this was just the start. What's truly special is what happened after they met!

Throughout the summer and fall they continued to adventure and make the most of the exciting dating butterflies! From pool parties and Renaissance Faires to bike rides, symphonies, cancer walks, and ski trips, Mel and Dan quickly fell head over heels for each other, with no end in sight. However, as winter approached, an event unfolded that would forever change the world. In March 2020, the mandatory lockdown in response to the COVID-19 pandemic went into effect. To keep the momentum of their relationship, Dan and Mel decided to move in together, despite having been together a little under a year. Mel moved into Dan’s beautiful family home on Stanley Road in Monroe. A few months later, in July 2020, Dan and Mel bought their own condo.

Dan and Mel began their journey as homeowners by renovating their kitchen. One silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic was the extra time available for home projects. With the help of family, friends, and some professional assistance, Dan and Mel completed their kitchen renovation by November of that year. In July 2022, Dan and Mel expanded their family from two to three by adopting Smokey Bear, the most adorable Russian Blue kitten anyone could hope for.

In April 2023, Dan got down on one knee and popped the question! He and Mel chose the ring together at Dan’s Aunt Tree and Uncle Mark’s stunning jewelry store. The ring was designed to reproduce Mel’s mom’s engagement ring, allowing Mel to seamlessly use her mom’s actual wedding band once they are married. In April 2024, while visiting Mel’s sister in Hawaii, they had their engagement photoshoot against the backdrop of the island’s beautiful beaches, mountains, and coastlines. Join us in celebrating these two eccentric souls as they do the thing and, to paraphrase Beyonce, put some rings on it!