We are getting married

Born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, Rachel took a swan dive out of her comfort zone in the summer of 2022, relocating to New Jersey to begin her first job as a PA with the Jefferson NJ surgery team. That same summer, Ben—who has called Philadelphia home since 2015—accepted a position on the same team. By the fall, a friendship formed, and before long they were finding excuses to include each other in nearly every plan, all while trying very hard not to make things weird. The slow burn eventually turned into something undeniable, and in June of 2023 they made it official. Over the next two years, Rachel moved to Fishtown, Ben’s house became their home, and they added Miles the cat to the mix—who quickly took on the important role of household supervisor. Through busy schedules, big changes, and plenty of ups and downs, they became each other’s constant, learning how to show up, laugh often, and move forward together. On May 31, 2025, outside their favorite local bar, Lloyd, Ben got down on one knee—and Rachel said yes. Where we are now: Living in Fishtown with Miles, planning a wedding, and feeling incredibly grateful for the life we’ve built together—and the many adventures still ahead.

On May 31, 2025, after dinner and drinks at one of their favorite neighborhood spots, Ben proposed to Rachel outside of Lloyd—despite being extremely nervous for absolutely no reason. Leading up to that day, Rachel had a sneaking suspicion something was up, persistently asking Ben if “today was the day,” and casually humming “Here Comes the Bride” as she walked down the stairs. Ben, somehow, managed to keep it together. With the help of Ben’s brother Kyle and cousin Ashley, the plan came together perfectly. Rachel said yes, happy tears were shed, and the celebration continued just down the street at Meyers Brewing, where friends and family were waiting to surprise them. It was the perfect night—full of love, laughter, and a little bit of well-earned relief.