We had a real-life meet-cute. Matt’s co-workers invited him to Monday trivia, where he met Anna — who, as it turned out, lived just two miles away. Carpooling quickly became the norm, with Anna keeping the rides entertaining with an endless stream of work stories. Soon, car rides turned into patio drinks, and not long after, our first official date: Sunday Mass followed by brunch. Fast forward a year and a half, and we were heading to Saluda, NC to visit Anna’s parents. We had plans to hike that Saturday, and arrived at Pearson’s Falls on August 11, 2024. When we got as close as possible to the waterfall, we stopped to take a selfie. Unbeknownst to Anna, Matt had already arranged for a photographer to be there. Just as Matt got down on one knee, an older man offered to take our picture. Anna, thinking Matt was joking, kept telling him to get up and stop faking. After what felt like an eternity (but was probably only two seconds), the man was moved aside, and Anna finally realized what was actually happening. She said yes! Back at the house in Saluda, we celebrated with both sets of parents. This was another surprise for Anna, as Matt’s had secretly flown in the day prior. We toasted on the porch with drinks and snacks, the Saluda way. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, and now we can’t wait to celebrate with all of you!