In March of 2013, while studying and traveling abroad through Hofstra’s European Odyssey Program, Allie and Tarek were driving with their classmates through the French countryside. Going from Mont Saint-Michele to Bordeaux, they were randomly seated next to one another, and talked the entire duration of the 8 hour journey.

Throughout the rest of their study abroad, through fifteen incredible European nations, including Greece, Italy, Turkey, Germany, The Vatican, Hungary and more; Allie and Tarek grew closer and became a couple.

Allie was 19 and Tarek was 21 years old when they met. Tarek was initially struck by Allie’s looks, but then found out that she was an even more beautiful soul. He could not believe how that pretty of a girl could be so funny, intelligent and graceful. Tarek fell in love with her and adored how she treated everyone with sincere kindness. He knew he had to keep her.

Upon flying back to New York and into JFK airport, they said their goodbyes to one another as their parents picked them up. Allie whispered “don’t forget about me” and Tarek replied “how could I?”

The very next day they saw each other. Shortly after that they started introducing their friends and families as they began their lives together on Long Island, New York.

While going out on dates, Tarek loved taking Allie to the movies, until he realized she fell asleep at almost every movie he took her to. Tarek told his friends he was more than happy to pay for Allie’s naps, as long as they were together. (Allie claims it’s only because she feels so comfortable around Tarek that she’s able to sleep so easily.)

When not relaxing at home, Allie and Tarek love hiking together, going to exotic travel destinations, and eating good food in the process.

Tarek is a big NBA fan and loves watching and going to the games. Allie loves watching the games too (until she falls asleep).

Tarek proposed to Allie on a boating trip in the serene mountains of Lake George in the summer of 2020, surrounded by some of their closest friends.

After almost 10 years together, they are so excited to spend their special day with beloved friends and family, and cannot wait to celebrate with everyone!