She was recently single and looking for a change of scenery. Having converted to a remote work style, Cristen decided to set her sights outside of Northern Virginia (again) and return to her old college stomping grounds, where the proximity to the beach and old friends felt like just the change she was looking for.

He was less-recently on the dating scene, but had spent the majority of his past several years focusing on himself, his career, and his growing artistic endeavors. Born and raised in Norfolk, aside from some extended stays in Puerto Rico during his childhood, he had built a community of family and friends across Hampton Roads and beyond.

As much as they knew just how “un-Hinge-d” dating apps could be, they both decided to take a chance on one and, shortly after matching online, began talking to each other every day. When Cristen’s original move-in date unexpectedly extended out several more weeks, the two became temporary pen pals, learning all about each other’s likes, dislikes, upbringings and goals for the future. By the time Cristen finally settled in to the Hampton Roads area, a spark had already formed between the two of them.

Their chemistry in person proved just as strong as their virtual banter, and they spent the next several days, weeks, and months getting to know each other and enjoying each other’s company.

If you ask Cristen, it was the moment that Alex offered (read: insisted) on landscaping her yard, front and back, to make sure her house was in tip-top shape for her first guests to visit for the weekend.

If you ask Alex, it was her willingness to assist in prepping for the largest solo show of his art career and the consistent positive energy he felt in her company.

No matter who you asked though, they both knew they had found their person. Together, they’ve worked to create a life that they love, and they’d like to invite you to join them on this next step in their journey: getting married!

Registry