Claire and Michael met in 2019, in an Anatomy class at William Paterson University. Claire and Michael were classmates, but it wasn’t until the world slowed down during COVID that Michael found the courage to ask Claire out.

When the time came for their first date, they did what felt right: they went to their favorite spot—Chick-fil-A—where they laughed, talked, and knew there was something special between them.

At the time, Michael was finishing his degree in Exercise Science, while Claire was working towards her Nursing degree. Even though life was busy, their connection grew stronger. Michael eventually moved to Illinois to take on a great job at Illinois Wesleyan, and Claire stayed in New Jersey to complete her studies and begin her career at St. Clare’s in Denville. Despite the miles between them, their bond only deepened.

In the summer of 2024, Michael came back to New Jersey. With the same heart and excitement that he felt on their first date, he took Claire to her favorite place—the gazebo at his parents' house—and asked her to spend forever with him. Of course, she said yes!

And so, here we are, surrounded by love and ready to continue the story we've been writing together. The journey that started in a classroom has led us here, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s next.