We met at College Orientation in July 2010. We both grew up in the same area and had at one time went to the same school as kids but never knew each other. Alex had learned from a friend that we were both going to SUNY Cortland and ironically both attending the same orientation weekend. So of course, he introduced himself to me. But what was more ironic was just before this happened my mom pointed out a tall guy in a hat and said “Look Steph, he’s a cutie.” Thanks, Mom. And since she turned out to be the networking queen at orientation she also met his parents. We connected immediately and it felt like we had already known each other forever. We talked and spent time together that summer and as soon as the semester started it felt like everywhere I turned he showed up. From then on we kind of naturally stuck to each other and he was the one thing that made me feel safe while being away from home for the first time. We spent that first holiday season together with each other’s families and unknowingly started our yearly tradition of visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree! And ever since that time of year has always been the most special to each of us.

Alex proposed on November 17th on the Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center! And it was truly out of a movie. This was our anniversary day and every year we go into the City and walk around Rockefeller Center, have dinner and drinks and just feel that little kid holiday excitement! I had always complained about how we both grew up in New York and had never been ice skating in Rockefeller Center; something travelers come half way across the country to do! This time he had surprised me with “VIP tickets” to finally skate at the rink and even better, skip the line! Which if you know me, this is huge because I’m late to everything. We drove into the city and checked in to a hotel that had kind of become a staple stop for us because of its Times Square view balcony bar. So here I am thinking, Rockefeller Center Ice Rink tickets and we're staying at our favorite NYC hotel?! Best Anniversary gift ever. Or so I thought. We checked in and eventually made our way to the rink. We skated the session until the very end! My feet were tired, I had to use the restroom and my bucket list item was checked; so I was ready for a margarita and food! The announcement was made that the session had ended and everyone was to move off the ice, but Alex insisted on skating a few more laps. Next thing I know we were in the middle of the rink with the NYC tourist paparazzi staring down at us. Our favorite Jack Johnson song, “Better Together” started to play and at that moment I blacked out completely. Alex got down on one knee and all I could hear were screams and cheers and all I could feel were tears rushing down my face. I shook my head yes but literally could not speak. I felt like I had been thrown into one of those hallmark Christmas movies that my mom loves so much. It was the most surreal and best moment of my life. It felt like a real life fairy tale. And to top it off, our closest family and friends were hiding and watching us the entire time! Most special moment. Best anniversary!

We are so excited to celebrate our special moment surrounded by our closest friends and family this May! And most of all we’re so happy to begin this new journey together! So save the date and be ready to dance!