Their story begins as so many others do in these days of having the world at your fingertips— with a simple, innocent swipe. Neither of them knowing at that time how a small, half inch drag across a smartphone screen would change the course of the rest of their lives.

They didn't truly expect to find someone of consequence on a dating app. It was treated more as a fleeting pastime to mock the cringey profiles with friends while getting ready for a night out. They didn't believe in those types of stupid apps, they were going to find their person at the grocery store, farmers market or even a bar — wherever Hollywood tells us we're supposed to find the love of our lives.

But when they matched there was something about her that captured his heart and imagination. He was captivated not only by her beauty but at the way she appeared to live her life to the fullest through laughter and love, surrounded by friends and family. Despite his fascination he had to be patient due to the fact that the woman had be the first one to message on this particular dating app in order to initiate the conversation.

After 23.5 hours the match was on the verge of expiring, so using the one and only extension he was granted each day-he bought himself another 24 hours hoping that she would notice the additional effort and send over that first “Hey.”

His valiant attempt to pique her interest went unnoticed and the next day their match expired, gone forever.

“Oh well,” he thought, maybe she just wasn't that interested. After a couple of days passed though, he simply couldn't get her out of his mind. So as a last ditch effort he decided to send her a message on instagram (actually he sent her a video), after all nothing ventured - nothing gained.

He asked her if she'd be willing to take a chance and go out on a date with him? Almost immediately she responded and they agreed to meet at a brewery (shocking!)

Sitting across the table from her and looking into her eyes, he knew from that first beer that she was extraordinary. He could picture a future together and only hoped that she might have an inkling of that same feeling.

Well 5-years, 1-dog, 1-pandemic, and countless adventures later —their love continues to grow stronger with each and every day. So please come join as they celebrate that love on August 31st! Make sure to wear your party pants cause it's going to be one hellofa good time!