Our Story We were “introduced” in December 2023, all thanks to Coffee Meets Bagel. Like many modern love stories, ours began with a message and a conversation that quickly felt easy and genuine. Because of holiday travel and end-of-year plans, we couldn’t meet in person right away, but that time allowed us to get to know one another before finally sitting down together. When we met on January 13, 2024, in Northwest Washington, D.C., we knew it had been worth the wait. From the moment we sat down for dinner at Mi Vida, the conversation flowed effortlessly. We talked about everything and nothing, and the hours seemed to disappear without either of us noticing. What stood out right away was how comfortable we felt together, how natural it was to listen, to laugh, and to ask thoughtful questions. Dinner turned into drinks and music at Chicken + Whiskey’s Speakeasy, and before we knew it, more than six hours had passed. By the end of the night, it was less like the conclusion of a first date and more like the beginning of something meaningful. Not long after that first date, it became clear that something special was developing between us. I (Sam) found myself looking forward to each weekend, making plans, and carving out time together whenever we could. I clearly liked her because very early on I even skipped a law school class to join Danielle at a wedding for her friend. A small moment that in hindsight was very telling. By February, we had already decided to be exclusive, and since then we’ve spent nearly every weekend together, building a relationship, a friendship, that felt steady, intentional, and deeply fulfilling. As our relationship grew, so did our appreciation for how we support one another. Danielle stood by me during the long and demanding months of studying for and taking the bar exam, offering encouragement, patience, and constant reassurance (including fielding quite a few practice questions). In turn, Sam was there for me (Danielle) when I was too sick to travel and spent a week in the hospital. He never left my side, as well as providing care, comfort, and a steady presence during a uniquely challenging time. Those moments, and many others, reinforced what we had already known to be true: that love is not only about shared happiness, but about being there and bearing witness to another’s life, in and through life’s more difficult seasons. For the Scriptures say, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12. At the core of our relationship is a shared set of values and a genuine foundation of friendship. We have fun together, laugh together, communicate openly, and truly enjoy each other’s company. Over time, it became clear that we are not only partners, but best friends. People who support one another, challenge one another, and choose each other every day. In October 2025, I (Sam) planned a proposal in Hawaii – an impeccable setting – one perfect for such an important moment in our lives. The proposal itself was overwhelming in a good way. Filled with emotion, excitement, and joy, I proposed marriage as we sat outside listening to waves crash against the shore on the Big Island. Afterward, we spent nearly three hours talking, dancing, and simply taking in the moment together. I was incredibly nervous leading up to it, but everything felt exactly right once it happened and she said yes. What began as a dating app match turned into a relationship built on trust, support, and a deep, abiding affection. We are incredibly grateful for the timing, the journey, and the love that brought us here. As we look ahead to marriage, we are excited for the life we are building together and thankful to celebrate this next chapter surrounded by the people who mean the most to us.