In the fall of 2021, I had no idea that a casual trip to Yeasty Beasty for pizza and beer with my brother and dad would lead to meeting someone who would change my life. Fast forward less than a year, and there we were—Jason and I—matching on Bumble. To be honest, I didn’t recall Jason being the one who helped us at Yeasty Beasty that night. I only have a picture of my brother and me enjoying a couple of flights in a booth.

When we decided to go on our first date, I was both excited and nervous. Noble Wave was the chosen spot, and I remember it vividly as my “last chance” before I gave up on finding a decent guy in Salem. The evening went so well that we set up a second date almost immediately. It was clear from the start that we were both ready to dive headfirst into this new relationship. We committed ourselves to getting to know each other on a deeper level and building something meaningful together.

About a year into our relationship, Jason moved in with me and Sami, bringing along his two cats, Claudio and Lump. I was overjoyed to have them as a part of my everyday life. However, Claudio wasn’t exactly thrilled with the new 95-pound roommate who stomped around like a bull in a China shop. It took some time for everyone to settle in, but the household gradually adjusted to the new dynamics.

When my birthday rolled around in October 2023, things took a magical turn. Jason had been secretly planning a proposal, and I had no idea. Our friend Rachel came into town to celebrate with me, and we planned to head to Red Hawk for some wine afterward since Jason told me he had to work. Little did I know, Jason was already there, waiting to pop the question.

The proposal happened so quickly and unexpectedly, but it was perfect. I couldn’t imagine it any other way—surrounded by love, laughter, and the wonderful life we were building together.

We have no idea what the future holds for us, but we are excited to take on life together as a married couple!