There is something quite magical about the unlikelihood that Sam and I came into one another’s lives. Six months into the global pandemic, we took a chance on a first date one rainy Wednesday in the middle of Aussie winter. I’ll never forget stepping into the doorway of Paddo Inn, scanning the dimly lit bar until I spotted Sam’s contagious smile as he stood to greet me. We spoke excitedly for hours that night—so much so that I barely touched my glass of wine, and Sam’s ability to make a pint last more than 10 minutes was truly put to the test. Within several dates, we both simply “knew.” It was a surreal feeling I'd never understood until then—a deep rooted certainty that I had found my best friend, my greatest love, and the only person I could envision the rest of my life with. Over the next several years, we built a beautiful life in Sydney filled with countless friendships, adventures, and FaceTime calls home as we waited for international borders to open. I will never forget our first visit to Jersey and Chicago, and the pure joy of finally meeting one another's friends and family after two years of waiting to reach this important milestone. In December of 2022, Sam planned the most gorgeous sunset proposal for me at Cremorne Point in Sydney. It was an idyllic, balmy summer evening as the sun dipped into a brilliant orange and pink watercolour, and we walked hand in hand through the park towards a stunning display of plush pillows and blankets, dozens of candles, roses, a bucket with champagne on ice and a speaker playing our favourite songs. Moments later Sam got on one knee and asked to spend the rest of our lives together: met by my instant, tearful 'yes,' and an enthusiastic round of applause throughout the park. The moment still feels like a dream. And now, we are beyond thrilled to make our next incredible memory: getting married in the romantic country of Italy, surrounded by all of our closest friends and family.