Sam and Michael’s love story is a tale as old as… well, dating apps. They met on Tinder in the fall of 2021, each swiping right after spotting a photo of the other on the water—a shared love that still plays a big role in their lives today. Their first date was at Figo Wine Bar. Michael was instantly drawn to Sam’s vivacious spirit, while Sam couldn’t resist Michael’s sense of humor and knack for writing in the third person. On February 13, 2022, they made it official—partly because Sam didn’t want to face Valentine’s Day without a boyfriend. The rest, as they say, is history. Together, Sam and Michael share a love for travel, long walks along Lake Michigan, and time with family and friends. Their perfect Sunday night involves sharing a cozy meal on the couch, watching either football or a rom-com (depending on who has the remote), and competing in their new game obsession (first it was cribbage, now they're on to Mah Jongg). They’ve cheered each other on through life’s big milestones—Sam completing his CPA exams and Michael returning to school to become a nurse practitioner—balancing study sessions with being present partners, friends, and family members. When it came time to propose, they somehow had the exact same idea: get down on one knee on May 17, 2025. Each planned their own surprise and looped in their family and friends. Michael had envisioned a romantic getaway, but little did he know Sam had already planned an afternoon sail on the Denali. Suspicious of the "free boat ride," Michael tucked Sam’s ring into his pocket—just in case. Sure enough, Sam proposed… and Michael immediately followed suit. Two proposals, one magical afternoon, and a weekend celebration with the people they love most. Thank you for reading our story—we’re so excited to celebrate our wedding with you in beautiful Traverse City. We can’t wait to make more memories together and share the surprises to come!