The story of Sam and James is a long one, starting back in 2009. If you ask James, he’ll tell you it was love at first sight - the moment 6th-grade James saw 6th-grade Sam’s radiant, braces-clad smile in Ms. Canlon’s homeroom, he was hooked. And Sam? She’ll tell you she knew right then and there that, just 17 short years later, the kid across the room would be her husband. Just kidding. The real story took much longer to unfold. After going to middle school together (where, truth be told, Sam wasn’t exactly James’ biggest fan), they moved on to high school, graduating as part of the same friend group. The two went off to separate colleges, but stayed friends. There was always some interest between them, but they were never single at the same time, and for years the timing just never seemed to line up. That all changed in 2021. One Mad Dog margarita tower and a spontaneous Fourth of July trip to Atlantic City later, and their feelings for each other finally came to the surface. And from that moment on, Sam and James were inseparable. Their days quickly filled with laughter, adventures, and the kind of joy that only comes from finding the right person. Within just a month, they both knew: this was it. Fast forward to August 2024 - their three-year anniversary. James whisked Sam back to Atlantic City to celebrate, then told her they’d need to return to Staten Island the next day for a baptism. But the “baptism” was just a clever cover. On August 3, James pulled off the ultimate surprise proposal, leaving Sam completely shocked, overwhelmed with joy, and in tears. That day, Sam said yes to forever with her best friend. Today, Sam and James share a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. They love trying new restaurants, taking trips anywhere and everywhere, testing dessert recipes, and spending time with family and friends - but some of their favorite memories are the quiet nights in, just enjoying each other’s company. Sam and James balance each other perfectly: where one is strong, the other brings calm, and together they bring out the best in one another. Now, they can’t wait to take on the next chapter of life hand-in-hand - beginning with a celebration of their love on March 28, 2026, surrounded by all of you. Let’s make it a night to remember!