Deanna and Dennis’ story began back in 2008 at Hillsborough Middle School, where they quickly became close friends. Though they secretly had crushes on each other, neither quite knew how to bridge the gap between friendship and something more. (Fun fact: they even unknowingly matched in red and black at their 8th grade Winter Wonderland Dance!) A sweet backyard first kiss marked the beginning of something deeper and from then on, Dennis never stopped trying to win Deanna’s heart.

Through high school, Dennis made his feelings clear, asking Deanna out more than once and even inviting her to prom, despite being friend-zoned time and again. Still, their friendship remained strong. Deanna, knowing how real it could get, chose to protect both of their hearts rather than risk leading him on, even though a part of her always wondered, what if?

After heading off to separate colleges, Rutgers for Deanna, St. John’s for Dennis, they kept in touch, occasionally crossing paths and drunkenly flirting over text. But it wasn’t until post-grad, when they found themselves back in the same friend group, that something shifted.

In the summer of 2019, a group trip to Seaside Heights changed everything. Spending time together as adults, Deanna saw Dennis in a new light not as the boy who used to ask her out, but as the man with a kind heart, quick wit, and the same unwavering affection. That summer, she realized she didn’t just like him, she only wanted him.

They officially started dating in May 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. With the world shut down, they dove headfirst into quality time together, a true test that only made them stronger. They bonded over their love for animals, breweries, music, and dreaming about future adventures around the world.

In 2023, they moved in together, taking the next big step. But for Deanna, there was one non-negotiable before marriage: a trip to Disney. She always said it would be the ultimate compatibility test.

So, in May 2024, they planned a magical getaway and on May 16th, Dennis proposed in front of Cinderella’s Wishing Well at Magic Kingdom. It wasn’t totally a surprise, but Dennis pulled off the perfect moment, complete with a stunning ring and Deanna’s parents secretly flying down to join them.

Now engaged, they’re soaking up every moment of this new chapter planning their dream wedding, settling into a new home, and looking forward to a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure.

They truly are best friends and they can’t wait to become husband and wife.

D&D

Wedding Day