S + M

It all started back in 2020 at UNC Charlotte—peak college chaos, mid-pandemic Zoom classes, and somehow, fate still showed up right on time. Sarah was living with her college roommate (now BFF and bridesmaid, Carli), and Matt just so happened to be close family friends with Carli. One night, we both ended up at a pregame at a mutual friend's college apartment before heading to Wooden Robot Brewery—and shoutout to Carli, the ultimate matchmaker, because that casual intro changed everything. The moment we met, it felt like time slowed down (cheesy, but true). It was one of those rare, instant connections—the kind where you just know. We spent the night talking, laughing, and realizing we had stumbled into something really special. From that night on, we were pretty much inseparable. What started as a spontaneous introduction turned into the kind of love that makes every day feel like an adventure—through college, post-grad life, big moves, small moments, and now, this huge next chapter.

It was a crisp, picture-perfect fall afternoon in October 2024 at Daveste Vineyards in Troutman, NC. We were sipping wine, soaking up the sunshine, and hanging out with a few family members—just enjoying what felt like a chill day at the vineyard. (Spoiler: it was not just a chill day.) After we got settled with our wine, Matt casually suggested taking a little walk over to the vineyard’s “Wishing Tree”—a big, beautiful tree rumored to make your dreams come true. Sarah, completely unsuspecting, said sure (even though the walk was a little longer and a little more suspicious than usual). As we got closer, Sarah noticed a small picnic setup and assumed it was part of some whimsical vineyard tradition. But then she saw the red roses. And the bottle of rosé (her favorite). And the charcuterie board. That’s when things started to click. Underneath that magical Wishing Tree, Matt got down on one knee and asked Sarah to marry him. Totally shocked, overwhelmed, and very happy—she said “YES!” But wait—plot twist! Just when Sarah thought the moment couldn’t get any better, out popped our closest friends and family from their hiding spots (they had been spying the whole time). Even Sarah’s sister Corrine had secretly flown in from Boston to surprise her! It was pure magic—filled with happy tears, big hugs, and memories we’ll carry with us forever.