Joey and Shannon met during the summer of 2017 when Shannon was doing an internship with the RedBlacks for her Athletic Therapy degree. Joey knew better than to ask out the attractive intern, but made note to another friend that “That girl will be trouble for me someday”.

February of 2018 would present Joey with the opportunity to ask Shannon out when she was home from Sheridan College on Reading Week. (She said yes to picking up a RedBlacks team picture - which turned out to be the second best yes ever!) Shannon’s still not sure why she said yes to this day - but it has certainly worked out well for them! Their first date turned from a quick skate on the Rideau Canal into an all night talking session. They instantly connected over their passion for sports, love of animals, and shared values. Shannon had to return to the Toronto area the next day for school but Joey was undeterred and made several weekend trips over the following weeks to visit her.

The couple started officially dating in April of 2018 and spent the first year of relationship long distance. Shannon would take a job with the rival to Joey’s RedBlacks - the Ticats - during the 2018 season which kept them busy during those first few months.

When they returned from a vacation with Joey’s family at the end of 2018 they were both overjoyed to have a voicemail waiting on Shannon’s phone with an offer to work for the RedBlacks in 2019! The long distance relationship was ending!

A year later when the pandemic rolled around, they decided to move in together. Shannon and her awesome cat Sidekick joined Joey and his then roommate, Sir Patrick, at their house in Ottawa. COVID lockdowns are a great way to find out if you’re able to live with a person long term, and they certainly passed the test!

They would take the next step in their relationship in early 2021 and add a puppy - Hambone - to their little family. His personality added another great dynamic to the relationship and he has basically become their entire personalities.

As the lockdowns lifted they decided to begin house shopping and purchased their first home together in February 2022 and moved in over the August long weekend a few short months later. (Apologies to those again who helped them (pack and) move! If you know, you know!)

Making their house a home became a labour of love over the first year of home ownership. They have truly come to love their home as they’ve made it truly “theirs”. That’s why on November 17th, 2023 Joey could think of no where more perfect to propose than in their living room. With the help of two of Shannon’s best friends, Joey was able to create a surprise proposal after an evening out for dinner. Shannon was so surprised by the moment and the proposal she couldn’t even remember the words of the proposal or to take the ring out of the box! Thank goodness there is video evidence of her saying yes!

Over the years together, Joey and Shannon have built many memories together while travelling, skiing, attending sporting events, finding new restaurant experiences and time with their families & friends. They have truly grown into each other's “persons”.

They are so excited to share their special day with you all!

Please see further details regarding the special day and celebrations.

Photos