Corey and Maria met online through a dating app called Bumble back in February 2019. Maria was taken by his "genuinely happy" eyes and great smile. Corey thought Maria was very pretty and loved animals, as three of her photos featured dogs. Once they matched, the texts back and forth were easy and fun and they knew an in-person date needed to be scheduled. Even after some miscommunication and app error, their first date finally was scheduled at the Whiskey Room in downtown Burlingtonwhich Maria chose. Little did Maria know, Corey is a huge whiskey/bourbon connoisseur so this was the perfect first date spot.

Their first date was a success, with conversation flowing effortlessly, leading them to continue the evening with dinner at the Farmhouse. What followed were more enjoyable conversations and shared adventures. By April, they made it official as boyfriend and girlfriend, and in July, they took a trip to Toronto with Maria's family—Maria saw it as the ultimate test to see if he was in it for the long haul.

In nearly six years of dating, they've weathered a pandemic, launched a business, worked together, built a house, and moved—first Corey to the city, then Maria to the countryside. Along the way, they've traveled to seven U.S. states, five countries, and created countless memories, many shared with their amazing family and friends. Through their shared love of travel, outdoor adventures, discovering new restaurants, and, most importantly, their dogs, they've become each other's constant companion, navigating life side by side.

On September 21, 2024 Corey asked for Maria's hand in marriage on their annual apple picking outing. Maria of course said "I Do!" Corey could not have planned a more perfect proposal. They look forward to having friends and family join in their next chapter of life together saying "I Do" in the very picturesque Vermont setting overlooking the Mountains and a Lake.