Tinder... Seriously! Jacquie and I both were on Tinder and just happened to match with one another! We met on a chilly Sunday morning at The Root Cafe in Lakewood, OH. Jacquie had an out to go play ultimate frisbee, but somehow Ryan made enough of a first impression to get a second date.
From carving pumpkins on our second date, to exploring Cleveland, Playhouse Square events, Indians Games, Solstice Steps at Lakewood Park, Plate Nights with friends, and hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There were so many things we were learning about one another and there were so many things we had in common. As most of you know, we have both been married previously. This time, we were taking our time and really trying to connect with one another. Little did we know... our time together began to exceed our expectations. Then came the serious part of any relationship - meeting the family - from Jacquie's parents, Linda and Bud, John and Diana, to Ryan's daughter Makenzie. Everyone has welcomed the relationship that Ryan and Jacquie share, and began to blossom their own relationships with them as well!
There were countless ideas running through Ryan's head for the proposal but he knew one thing and that was the ring. Liza Michelle Jewelry, local, unique, and perfect for us. After a quick trip to Sarasota to plan everything and asking for the blessing from all of Jacquie's family, it was December and we were in Siesta Key. A photoshoot at sunset was the plan and with the help of Linda, it worked out great. Everyone but Jacquie knew exactly what was happening. It was a perfect evening and when we got there Ryan can't remember what he said, but Jacquie was shocked. She had no idea and we spent the sunset capturing our engagement together.