We met online, but our connection was anything but virtual. After a few messages, Joseph invited me to a Padres game the very next day. I agreed, and we made plans to meet downtown for lobster rolls beforehand. The game was exhilarating, but what really struck me was how comfortable we felt around each other. It was as if we'd known each other for years, not just hours. As we sipped drinks at a bar after the game, strangers even mistook us for a long-time couple, offering to take our photo to commemorate what they thought was our anniversary. Little did they know, it was only our first date! Our whirlwind romance continued when we embarked on separate trips to Ohio and Tennessee. Determined to spend more time together, I rented a car and drove six hours to meet Joseph for our second date. He surprised me with a luxurious hotel room, complete with all my favorite treats and drinks. Together, we explored Broadway, indulging in hot chicken and honky-tonking the night away. It was then, under the neon lights of Nashville, that we both knew we were meant to be. We fell deeply in love, and eventually, we made the decision to start a new life together in Music City. Looking back, it's clear that our love story was meant to be. From that first Padres game to our adventures on Broadway, every moment has led us to where we are today – and we couldn't be more grateful.
From the moment I knew I wanted to spend forever with Tayler, I also knew her ring had to be as unique and beautiful as she was. But after searching high and low, nothing felt quite right. Nothing spoke to me the way she did. So, I decided to create one myself. I spent weeks sketching designs, but I needed help to bring my vision to life, so I found an artist—someone who could take the image in my mind and transform it into something real. Together, we refined the details, perfecting every curve and shimmer. When the final rendering was complete, the ring was crafted, each piece carefully set, with each facet reflecting the love that it brought to life. With the ring ready, I planned the perfect proposal. Catalina Island felt like the right place—its beauty, like hers, was breathtaking yet effortless. I booked a room at the Zane Grey Hotel, a little surprise to make the moment even more special. My plan was to ask her over a romantic dinner, to let the anticipation build until the perfect moment. But love has a way of making its own plans. The second we stepped into our room, my heart pounded in my chest. I had imagined this moment so many times, but nothing compared to the reality of having her there, the ring tucked away, the weight of the question pressing against me. I lasted all about 20 minutes on the island before asking her to marry me. Before we could even settle in, I dropped to one knee, unable to wait another second. I didn’t need the perfect dinner, the perfect setting—I had her, and that was enough. Catalina was more beautiful than ever that weekend, but nothing compared to the light in her eyes when she became my fiancée. I had arrived on that island with a ring, a plan, and a heart full of love. I left with the love of my life, a promise, and a future that felt more radiant than ever.