We like to think our story could have begun long before we ever met. Our families just missed crossing paths while living in Italy, and years later, Justin’s coworker—Ellie’s college roommate—shared stories and photos of her during summers at the pool where he lifeguarded. Though we wouldn’t officially meet for another seven years, the invisible strings connecting us were always there, waiting for the right moment to bring us together.

But our real story began on August 20, 2023, when we matched on Hinge. Within minutes of chatting, we discovered a surprising number of shared experiences. Both oldest children, both born abroad, both raised by military families, and both shaped by a life full of moves and adventures; it was clear that we had an instant connection.

Three days later, we went on our first date to Ellie’s favorite beach, Sandbridge. The night started with a pizza picnic on the sand and ended at Back Bay wildlife refuge, where we talked for hours. Just a few days after, Ellie was in Roanoke for a friend’s wedding, and Justin was visiting his parents in Blacksburg. The morning after the wedding, we met for a second date at Virginia Tech, where Justin gave Ellie a private campus tour, took her to his dad’s funnel cake shop, and even introduced her to his family’s dogs.

Although Justin was set to deploy just 50 days after our first date, we both agreed that we wanted to see our connection through. In that short time, we shared countless memories, including a week at North Topsail Island for Justin’s birthday, meeting each other’s families, and celebrating Justin’s promotion to Lieutenant JG. On October 10th, we professed our love for one another, making it the date we’ve celebrated as our dating anniversary ever since.

Just days later, Justin left for deployment, marking the start of a long-distance love. Despite 7,000 miles and oceans between us, we were committed to keeping our connection alive. Weekly phone calls, heartfelt letters, and countless care packages became the lifelines of our relationship, but it was our unwavering commitment to each other that allowed us to bridge the distance.

After nine long months, in July 2024, Justin returned home. The reunion was everything we had dreamed of, filled with laughter, happy tears, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. From that moment, we knew this was the love we had both been waiting for.

Over the next few months, our connection only grew stronger. We picked up right where we left off, with an even deeper appreciation for the strength of our relationship. In October 2024, Justin planned a surprise that changed our lives. He brought Ellie back to the duck pond at Virginia Tech, where we’d spent hours on our second date sharing stories and discovering all the “invisible strings” that had connected us over the years. While reminiscing on that special day, Justin got down on one knee and asked Ellie to marry him.

As if the moment couldn’t get better, both of our families were nearby to celebrate with us, making it a day we’ll never forget. Now, we’re counting down to saying “I do” on the same date that started it all, two years after we first said, “I love you.”

Our story is one of serendipity, resilience, and a love that continues to grow stronger. We’re so excited to begin this next chapter together and so grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey. Here’s to all the adventures ahead!