"We met through mutual friends." This is what we've told everyone throughout the years. While this is technically true, here's the real story:

On a beautiful, Fall night in 2022, Marissa went out to meet up with her friend, Jessica. As the margaritas poured, so did their hatred for relationships. They were so over it. While laughing and swiping through dating apps, Marissa grabbed Jessica's phone (the alcohol clearly kicking in) and began to swipe. She swiped "no" on every profile, but one. She nonchalantly swiped "yes" on this guy, then put the phone down. This was immediately awkward as it was a match. She didn't take this seriously, but Jessica being the social butterfly she is, messaged this guy Eric and gave him Marissa's phone number.

Begrudgingly, Marissa texted whoever "Eric" was. Yet, something about him secretly excited her. A few days later, Marissa and Eric went on a date at Lazy Dog in Naperville. They went with zero expectations. Well, they must have hit it off because soon enough they were spending all of their time together. Maybe it was fate, maybe it was serendipity, but after only a few weeks they fell in love.

Fast forward to Valentine's Day 2025

We took a trip to Clearwater, Florida (our first real vacation together). The ocean was warm, and mirrored the beautiful sunsets with kaleidoscopes of color. We watched the sun set every night after dinner. On Valentine's Day, while watching the sunset on the beach, Eric proposed. And with her whole heart, Marissa said "Yes!"

We cannot wait to get married and celebrate with all of our close family and friends this December. We hope to see you there!