Carey and Samantha met on her college graduation weekend. Carey was in town for his sister Mia’s graduation, who just so happens to be one of Samantha’s best friends from Tri Delt. The two families shared a graduation brunch. Meg, Carey’s mom, thought Samantha and Carey would be a perfect fit and suggested the match to Mia. After a few “chance encounters” the rest of the weekend and phone calls over the following weeks, Carey flew to Washington, DC, for their first date. The two felt it could be something special, but Samantha was leaving for a summer Au Pairing in Italy. Knowing Carey’s summer plans, Samantha's ears perked up when she heard of a nearby town known for its windsurfing. Shortly after, Carey coincidentally rebooked a windsurfing trip from Southern France to Northern Italy and suggested date number two in Verona… and the rest is history!

Samantha knew exactly what she wanted: nails done, dressed up, pretty location, photographer…and to be surprised. Carey had his work cut out for him! An upcoming family trip to Carey’s grandparents’ Cape Cod home proved to be the perfect opportunity. Samantha had a hunch and confided in Mia and Maddie, who convinced her not to get her hopes up so she wouldn’t be disappointed. On the last night before “going out for a family dinner,” Carey and Samantha were sitting on the lawn watching the sailboats. Carey walked Samantha out to his favorite view of the bay “to look at a bird.” After forgetting everything that he wanted to say, he popped the question. Samantha was speechless and overjoyed. His family and a secret photographer came out of their hiding spots to celebrate the happy couple.