Russell & Mallory met while attending Hofstra University. It was a Wednesday "wing night" at a local bar named Social. They were introduced by a mutual friend, Anya, and hit it off. They bonded over their similar experiences transferring from North Carolina schools, status as student-athletes, and the consistent disappointment that comes with being a NY Jets fan.

Seven years later they had exponentially grown together - graduated college (& Mallory law school), started careers, moved in together, and were in the midst of navigating a global pandemic. While celebrating the 4th of July down the New Jersey shore, Russell proposed to Mallory on the beach. It came at the perfect time.