We always say our love story began with the best first impression…


Charlie tried to give Hannah “stolen goods” and she “threatened” to cut him.


Ok... there's a little more to the story than that!


Their story began with a twist of humor and a dash of serendipity. In April of 2022, Hannah started her new job, and Charlie was there to set up her computer. As he was connecting the monitor, he discovered it still had a Medford Police Department evidence tag from a previous theft. Jokingly, Charlie mentioned he’d cut off the tag, only for Hannah to respond with a playful threat: if he did, she’d cut him. From that moment on, a unique connection sparked between them.


Despite their initial attraction, they both created lists of reasons not to date each other. But God had other plans. On November 9th, 2023, during a Young Professionals event with the Chamber of Commerce, everything clicked. After the event, they grabbed a drink and had a heartfelt conversation about their lives, their happiness, and their single status. At one point Charlie remarked that he was very blessed with where his life was. He was also happy to be able to spend his time and money how he wanted, and that it would take a “hell of a woman” to change that. Hannah must have taken that as a challenge, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.


The night ended with Charlie walking Hannah to the car, as they stood in the street saying their good-byes it was sprinkling. Before they knew it, nearly an hour had passed as they stood there. Finally, Charlie asked if he could give Hannah a hug as they parted ways. That was it. That was the hug. They both knew this was different. 


The next several months flew by. As their relationship blossomed, Charlie’s daughters, Grace and Jocelyn, quickly embraced Hannah, enjoying every moment with her. Everything was falling into place.

When it came time for the proposal, Charlie had a clear plan. He had been thinking about it for weeks - even the ring had been bought 3 months earlier. He knew the engagement would be perfect with a trip to the coast.


He made sure Hannah met his friends in California and spent time with them by taking her down there the week before. He had scheduled out time with Hannah's parents weeks before the engagement. Charlie had seen a fun trend where choices for a trip are written on cards, so he decided to use this idea for their coastal getaway with the kids. He began talking to Hannah about the trip about a month early so as to not raise suspicion. He even had Hannah helping to plan the trip and what would be their engagement... she just didn't know it.


They explained the idea to the kids, and the girls were all about it! Each card determined their next activity—from driving to music, and activities to lunch options, even the city they would travel to (and get engaged in). After a day filled with laughter and exploration, it was time to pick the final card. Charlie had written “Marry me?” on three different cards. When Hannah pulled one out and saw the proposal, Charlie got down on one knee with a ring he’d been holding onto for months. It was a perfect end to a day full of joy and love.


And so, from a humorous start to a heartfelt proposal, our story is one of unexpected beginnings and a love that has grown into something truly special.