Soon To Be…The Whites!

It all started in 2019 at Sophie’s family’s restaurant, Acappella Italian Restaurant in Fallston, Maryland. Matthew was a busser, Sophie was a server, and their paths first crossed during weekend shifts. Sophie’s little sister Lexi immediately nicknamed Matthew “bread roll” thanks to his huge, curly hair — and the name stuck. When COVID hit, the restaurant’s dine-in shut down and Matthew stopped working there. But in late 2020, he came in for dinner with his mom, and the bartender mentioned (only half-joking) how great it would be to have him back. The restaurant was short-staffed, and sure enough, Matthew returned. It wasn’t long after that their friendship grew deeper. They found comfort in each other as they navigated the challenges of college and working through the pandemic. Matthew became a true part of Sophie’s family, especially after working side by side with her Albanian grandparents—who fed him well and communicated more through laughter and hand gestures than words. Four years later, Sophie and Matthew went on a family trip to Albania. After a beautiful day on the water with loved ones, Matthew planned a surprise proposal. He claimed they needed to stop for gas and docked at Porto Palermo. With everyone nearby and Sophie’s mom completely caught off guard, Matthew got down on one knee and asked Sophie to marry him. Sophie and Matthew took another big step and bought their first home in Forest Hill. Matthew completed his apprenticeship and journeyman school and is now working toward his master electrician’s license. Sophie continues her work as a civilian contract specialist for the U.S. Army. Through it all — and yes, still working at the family restaurant — they’ve continued to grow in faith, love, and life together.