Shawn and Charlotte met on the dating app, Hinge, in August of 2022. Simply from the profiles, it was clear that both of them shared similar interests along with the values that they both deem most important.

After talking on the app for a couple of hours, Shawn felt comfortable enough to ask Charlotte to meet for lunch that same day. Surprisingly, Charlotte also felt comfortable enough to accept.

They met at Tavern on Main in Crown Point, IN and it was love at first sight. Although Charlotte was admittedly shy on the first date, it progressed with conversation just flowing naturally (mainly through Shawn starting each conversation). After a few hours, Shawn attempted to extend the date for dessert, but was forced to accept a follow up a few days later.

From that point, they continued to make every attempt to spend time with each other leading to numerous dates in the following days. They both recognized a best friend in one another and have continued to want to spend every possible second with each other.

In August 2024, Shawn and Charlotte took the once in a lifetime trip to Italy. They have both always admired the history and beauty of the country along with wanting to try the food!


Ahead of the trip, Shawn got it into his mind that Italy would be the perfect location to propose to the love of his life, Charlotte. He went and picked out the ring and sought permission from Charlotte’s parents ahead of leaving on the trip. While traveling, Shawn was a bundle of nerves as he had the beautiful ring in his carry-on.


In Venice, Shawn had arranged for a rooftop reservation next to the canal with an amazing view where he planned to do the proposal on the second evening they were there. That day, although the weather forecast showed clear skies, the city was bombarded with torrential rains. Shawns plans had to be cancelled.


On the ride to Rome, as Shawn continued to try to think of alternative plans, he came to the conclusion that the perfect location and time would be Saint Peters Square in the evening. He quickly arranged secret plans with another couple on the tour to come with them under the guise of taking pictures.


As the couples walked over to Saint Peters Square, it was an absolute beautiful sight with none of the crowds that one would see during the day. The couples started by alternately taking pictures of the other couple and progressively moved closer. As Shawn and Charlotte got directly in front of St. Peters Basilica, Shawn asked for a picture. As he looked around to make sure all bystanders were out of view, he grabbed Charlotte’s hand, knelt down, and asked for her hand in marriage.


Charlotte was immediately in tears and excitedly said YES!