We met in high school seeing each other in chemistry class, ultimate frisbee Fridays, and around the Aman house. Michael asked Gianna to the Homecoming Dance and they started dating soon after. The couple went to different colleges 3 hours apart and stayed in touch making day trips and long weekends to each other's campuses. In 2021, Gianna moved to Charlotte, NC and Michael moved in about a year later when he graduated.

Michael proposed at a special overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that the couple had stopped at during their numerous trips to the area. They had decided to camp at a different area completely that weekend but Michael changed the course of navigation, and they ended up in the Smokies. When they arrived at the park, Gianna had many questions including if they could stop at the gift shop! Not only was Gianna surprised by the proposal, she was shocked to see family, friends, and a friendly bear jump out of the woods (literally) to celebrate when she said “Yes!” Gianna’s parents, aunt and uncle, close friend from Charlotte and soon to be Bridesmaid, and her soon to be sisters and mother in law were there which was so special. The couple had a wonderful evening with a dinner party, surprise photoshoot, and celebration with their loved ones.