Like many young couples in 2021, Maria and I met through an online app named Hinge. We quickly realized that even though this was our first encounter, we had a lot in common. We are both graduates of Penn State, only 1 year apart; we both grew up in Chester County only about 15 minutes away from each other; and we are both frequent flyers at Pomodoro's (best Italian food in Downingtown).

Our relationship quickly grew as Maria brought in a goldendoodle (which is French for Devil) named Ma'am who you will find photos of throughout our ceremony and reception. To add on to raising this terror of a dog, Maria and I both began new paths for our careers; I started work as a Physical Therapist, and Maria began her work through the PA Leadership Charter School (PALCS). Despite juggling new jobs, we were able to prioritize our time together and went on new adventures that ranged from the sunny shades of Florida to the deserts of Arizona.

We took our relationship to the next steps as we became closer with each other's families and friends; even going so far as to participate in each others traditions of Fish Dinner, and the Cecil County Fair Demolition Derby (Please let Jeremy Hammaker know if you would like to join us for the derby, we will reserve you VIP seats).

As we became closer, it was clear that this was no ordinary relationship, and that Maria would be my life partner and my wife. On September 29th, 2023 I made the easiest decision of my life and asked Maria to marry me.

As Maria and I enter our married life together, I wanted to take time to say thank you for celebrating this day with us. We would not be the people we are without the examples that all of you have set for us.

-Josh