Abbey, originally from Minnesota, decided to move to Jacksonville, Florida at the end of 2019 to pursue a new chapter in life and some much needed self discovery. It was a familiar place for her, as she spent her summers there staying with her grandparents and family, and she knew she would have the support she needed. During this first year, Abbey had no intention of dating. It was purely meant for focusing on herself, setting goals for the future, and settling into the next chapter. That's usually how it goes, right? When you're not looking for someone, they happen to show up in your life. Enter Matthew.

Matthew was and is a close friend of Abbey's cousin Chelsea. Abbey and Chelsea have been inseparable since their childhood days, even despite the distance when Abbey lived in Minnesota. Abbey spent a lot of time at Chelsea's, and therefore was introduced to Matthew during her visits. Abbey, as stated before, had NO intention of pursuing anyone or dating! And Matthew was made well aware of this! Whenever a social gathering was happening at Chelsea's, Abbey found herself hopeful and asking if Matthew would be there too. Matthew made Abbey laugh. He was so goofy and silly, and Abbey always found herself laughing with him. He was friendly, always willing to help, and not to mention those blue eyes of his! Abbey and Matthew eventually exchanged numbers and began talking more frequently. They went on their first date, just the two of them, at One Night Taco Stand. They were both so nervous, but had a great time getting to know each other more. Abbey and Matthew continued to go on more dates and adventures, and officially started dating August 30th, 2020.

Abbey and Matthew went on lots of adventures together, both big and small. Whether it was a trip to Target, a weekend away in Orlando, a walk in some nature preserve, or even a roadtrip to Minnesota (the ultimate test to any relationship is a cross-country roadrip), they had the best of times together. Matthew was Abbey's opposite, calm and collected, easy going. He was always patient with her, never made her feel like her feelings weren't valid, allowed her to feel all her big feelings and emotions, and never walked away.

Matthew took Abbey on one particular adventure on August 14th, 2022. They went to the Jacksonville Arboretum, walking the trails and looking at all the beautiful greenery and gardens around them. As they crossed a small wooden bridge, Matthew reached for Abbey's arm turning her around. He got down on one knee, and asked her the question she'd been dreaming of her whole life: "Will you marry me?" The answer was obviously, YES!

After several years of being engaged and surviving nursing school (if you know, you know), it's finally time for Abbey and Matthew to tie the knot! They are both so excited for this day to finally be here, and to celebrate with their closest friends and family as they start on this next adventure. Cheers to the future Willoughby's!