Xander and Marie met at a wedding in September 2024. That night, he dragged her out onto the dance floor, and honestly, they’ve been inseparable ever since. At the time, Xander was living in Chattanooga and Marie was living in Atlanta, which meant there were many (many) Friday nights and earrrrly Monday mornings spent in the car for one of them. For both of them, their relationship from the jump fit the ever-popular saying, “when you know, you know”. At the end of 2025, Marie made the move from Atlanta to Chattanooga, and they’ve been building their life together there ever since with their rescue dog, Emma. Since meeting, they’ve traveled from Boston to Puerto Rico, spent many summer weekends on Lake Hartwell, and enjoyed lots (and lots) of amazing food. They love exploring new bars and restaurants, spending time outdoors, and working out in their home gym. They can’t wait to spend the rest of their lives together and have everyone there to witness the start.

Xander and Marie took a trip to the Biltmore Estate at the beginning of December 2025 after Marie mentioned to Xander that she’s always wanted to see the Biltmore at Christmas time. During the first day there, they took a walk around the Biltmore gardens. Xander found a secluded spot on the shoreline of the bass pond, got down on one knee, and popped the question. Without hesitation, Marie said yes and they spent the rest of the weekend celebrating over amazing food, wine, and beautiful Christmas lights. The proposal was exactly what they wanted… private, peaceful, and a moment shared by just the two of them.