10 | 16 | 2026

It all started with a graduation cookout. After earning her master’s degree, Amanda hosted a celebration at her house. A friend asked if she could bring someone visiting from out of town—Eric. Amanda said yes, and just like that, Eric ended up at the party, tossing bean bags in a game of cornhole, meeting Amanda’s cats, and chatting by the fire. When they left, Eric turned to their mutual friend and said, “I’m going to marry that girl someday.” The friend laughed and said, “No way.” About a year later, Amanda was visiting that same friend’s apartment—right as Eric was moving into the open bedroom there. She quietly confessed, “He’s so cute.” A few days after, a group went to downtown Providence for a night out. Somewhere between beers and banter, Amanda and Eric found themselves deep in debate: iPhone vs. Android. Amanda was team iPhone, Eric firmly team Android. Amanda asked to see his phone—to “prove a point”—opened the messaging app, typed in her number, and sent a text that read: “I admit, iPhones are superior.” (Smooth move, right?) After that, they talked for hours sharing stories, dreams, and a glimpse of something special. That night was the real beginning of their love story.