Abby and Jonathan met at the end of 2018 while attending college in DC. Here are some of their favorite stories and recollections throughout the years.

Abby's Story:

When I first met Jonathan, I unknowingly learned my favorite thing about him — his willingness to try new things. He’d invited me to sushi because it’s my favorite, but left out that he’d never tried it before. Thankfully, he loved it and liked me, so it set the stage for numerous first times and new experiences.

Our life in college was simply fun, even as I trudged through night shifts and he worked through advanced classes. Whether it was going to late night comedy shows, watching Black Mirror, or learning to use the scooter between West End and Firefly cafe, we spent time slow-living in our busiest years.

DC was where our relationship blossomed, but long-distance is how we knew it would last. Jonathan was only ever a call or text away, my constant no matter what changed in life.

Things built to last take time, and we enjoyed every date night, every lazy morning, and every long conversation.

Over time our lives naturally grew together. From always being my plus-one, to finding more of my clothes at his apartment, and cooking dinner when the other was too tired. Early on, we chatted about our futures—what we wanted individually and together. Conversations grew more serious, more hopeful, more sure. Now, they are all real. Jonathan’s always been my best friend and soul mate. Next up, he’ll get a well-deserved title change to husband. I can’t wait to take the first step toward forever!

Jonathan's Story:

A 30-minute wait on our first date's dinner reservation and concealing the fact I had never tried sushi before was all that was needed to spark the relationship.

After a couple years and graduating through a global pandemic, where Netflix Party allowed for virtual movie date nights between New York and Texas, we settled back in Maryland in 2021...I knew for the longest time that I wanted to marry Abby, but always contemplated the right time and place since I am a perpetual over-planner. As weddings started to emerge among friends and family and also working within weddings provided friendly reminders that Abby had patiently waited long enough.

Come April 2024, it was time to ask her father's permission in Mexico, (which I quickly did while Abby stepped out to the restroom as I couldn't think of anything else on the trip up until that point). Abby said yes in September 2024 during a surprise proposal at a rose garden in Arlington, Virginia, under the guise of our birthday weekend. She still assures me she had no clue.

Little Smokey's Story

Little Smokey came into our lives through our dear friend, Arleth, who knew someone who needed to rehome their rambunctious beagle. As a teacher, Abby knew she could reign him in, and with a lot of love to give, Jonathan was ready for a new best friend.

Lil Smokey quickly tore a hole in the door, broke blinds, and dishes, and dug his way right into our hearts. His favorite activities are listening to Jonathan sing, hiding his bone in Abby's dresses, and settling in for movie night. He is still seeking out his long lost love, Vaca, who he met at the dog park. One day, they will meet again.

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