We're tying the knot!

On March 31, 2018, Stephanie worked her last day of serving tables at local restaurant Woods Creek Tavern. After a morning rush, she rolled her eyes in annoyance when she saw two tables being pushed together to host a larger party, but little did she know her future husband was about to sit down. Michael arrived with good friends, Jacob Cunningham and Sarah Kedzior. After a few IPA's, and some reassurance from Jacob and Sarah, Michael decided to leave his phone number on his receipt for Stephanie to find. Stephanie texted him later that night with some coaching from her friend, Lauren Reid, and the the two went on their first date 5 days later.

On September 13, 2018, Michael told Stephanie that he was going to marry her one day at a friend's wedding. On August 31, 2019, he made that a reality. Michael, Stephanie, and friends Joe and Missy Mollica, headed up to Mackinac Island for a Labor Day weekend getaway. On the trip up, Stephanie and Missy gushed about weddings and Michael and Stephanie's hypothetical big day. Michael chimed in saying "IF we get married, sure." Stephanie rolled her eyes, teasing Michael for the rest of the night saying "IF we move in together, IF we love each other blah blah blah." The next day, they started their excursion on the island with a tandem bike ride around the perimeter of Mackinac. They stopped at a few locations to enjoy the view and take pictures along the way. Michael was searching for the perfect spot to pop the question, waiting until they were more than 3/4 way around the island. Michael stepped aside from the bike path away from other tourists. He chose a location on the water, where you can see the Mackinac bridge and the beautiful tree-line from the island. Stephanie followed Michael over to his perfect spot. Michael told her that there would be no more "IFs," and he got down on one knee (in rocks-ouch!) and asked Stephanie to marry him. She, of course, said YES! And so their happily ever after began!