Justin and I met on Bumble (yes, the dating app) back in 2021. I was giving the dating apps one last try, and I claimed my date with Justin, would be my last. If it didn’t work out, I was sold on being the cool, rich aunt, with no kids and a purse dog forever.

But then I met Justin. And my entire world changed.

Never in a million years would I have imagined I would meet (and fall for) my future husband by him simply guessing my middle name. But here we are (the cool aunt AND uncle.) Justin took over two weeks to ask for my number (longest two weeks of my life). It was hard at first, with me working nights, we were (and still are) on opposite schedules. I would wake up to a “good morning” message at 4pm, and he’d wake up to a “good night” message at 8am.

Our conversations got longer and we talked about family, work, running, friends, shoes (of course), and Praline. I told Justin that Praline and I are a package deal, so if she doesn’t like you then it won’t work out. Now she loves him more than me!

And for the shoes. Justin mentioned in a bumble message, about wanting a new pair of shoes. I said, “ALWAYS buy the shoes.” Little did I know, how many Jordans he has!

Our first date, after him FINALLY asking for my number was at Brookside Barrio. He was holding two margaritas in his hands when I walked up to him, but he didn’t know I’m not a big drinker-So he had them both! Despite that rocky (on the rocks) start we enjoyed a great dinner and even greater conversation before ending our night at the Green Lady Lounge. That date was over 6 hours long, and we haven't looked back since!

Not too long after that date, Justin showed up to my apartment one morning after I got off work with a box of Mr. D's donuts. I opened the box and read, “Will you be my GF :)” Of course I said yes!

I fell in love with Justin in a lot of ways. His love and closeness to his wonderful family. His sleek and fashionable style. His thoughtfulness. His stress-free, worry-free, positive attitude. His dance skills and silliness. His fun group of friends. His love for Praline. And mostly, his big, loving heart. That is now forever mine!

We’ve had a lot of fun over the years growing closer to one another. 5k’s, football games, trips to the beach, to the mountains. Up a 14er, a hike in desert springs. Visiting family and friends on the east and west coast. Dancing at weddings and in the kitchen. Countless dinners at chipotle and dessert at Andy’s.

Back to the topic f cool aunts, my auntie Linda once gave me great advice. She told me to find someone who always makes you laugh and smile.

Since the day I met Justin, I always and forever will laugh and smile! We cannot wait to write the rest of our story, thank you for being a part of it!