Daniela and John’s journey began on February 24, 2019, a date that’s special in Romanian culture as “Dragobete,” the day of love. After a week of chatting on eHarmony, they finally met in person for their first date at Tria Cafe in Rittenhouse Square. What was supposed to be a casual meeting turned into hours of conversation and laughter. By the end of the night, John knew he wanted to see Daniela again and asked her out on a second date right then and there.

They clicked instantly, and after their second date, they both felt something real and decided to cancel their eHarmony subscriptions. Just two weeks and five more dates later, John asked Daniela to be his girlfriend, and they officially began their adventure together.

It wasn’t just John who captured Daniela’s heart—his cats, Oliver and Emerson, quickly won her over too. The four of them became inseparable, and in April 2021, Daniela and John bought their first house together. Their little family grew on July 17, 2022, during what was supposed to be a quick trip to PetSmart for cat food. Instead, they came home with Emma, their beloved new addition.

Marriage had always been on their minds, but things got real during a family trip to Ireland. In the charming town of Clifden in September 2023, they stumbled upon the perfect engagement ring, and everything started to fall into place. On December 21, 2023, under their Christmas tree, John proposed, making their holiday season unforgettable.

Now, as they prepare to celebrate their love with all of you, they know that this is just the beginning of their story.

Photos