Just 2 weeks before the world shut down, Allison and Christian met like every other modern couple: on a dating app (thanks, Bumble)! After getting a notification that she had matched with someone, Allison decided to send a simple message just saying, “Hey there!” Christian responded right away and they quickly bonded over their love of their families, music, and the Philadelphia Eagles. Go Birds! 3 days later, they walked into Ichiban in Liverpool, NY, and Christian was questioning his decision after Allison chose not to sit at a hibachi table (if you know, you know). But the night went better than either of them could have expected and they continued to keep talking and meeting up over the next 2 weeks. Being a covid couple, as the world slowed down, their relationship just seemed to accelerate. Spending almost all of their time together helped them realize that their completely opposite personalities actually created the perfect balance, bringing out the best in each other. On March 14th, Christian asked Allison to be his girlfriend and the rest is history.

Flash forward 5 years later. Allison and Christian were now living in Charlotte, NC, with their bernedoodle, Lincoln. Their relationship had brought them new apartments, new cars, new jobs, and most importantly, a new fur baby. As March 14th approached, Allison was fully convinced that the proposal would be happening on that day. After all, it was the 5 year anniversary of their relationship. Little did she know, Christian was already putting a plan into place. On the evening of the 7th, Allison was getting ready for their weekly date night, not suspecting a thing. Her mind was fully made up that the proposal would be happening the following weekend. However, after she got done getting ready and she came downstairs, Christian was waiting in the living room with candles, music, and a “Marry Me” sign. Allison bawled her eyes out and said yes as soon as he was on one knee. After texting and FaceTiming friends and family, Allison thought all of the surprises were over. She and Christian headed to brunch the next day to celebrate the engagement and she was shocked again when she saw several family members and friends waiting for them! Both Allison and Christian were so happy to be surrounded by their loved ones and to be able to share that moment with them. It was truly an incredible weekend, and now they can’t wait to celebrate their wedding day with everyone they love!