Alex and Mariah’s love story began the most modern way, with a swipe on Tinder. It was 2020. Alex’s bio read “Aspiring home chef” and Mariah was intrigued. Who is this charming redhead? After plenty of banter back and forth followed by a few weekends at the campfire, Alex invited Mariah (and friends) over for a homemade Italian dinner. The menu? Pasta, meatballs, and lots of bread. From that night on, they have spent nearly every minute cherishing time together. Not long after, on Christmas Eve at the book store— while out shopping for their families— Alex asked Mariah to officially be his girlfriend. It was simple, sweet, and perfectly them. Over the years, their love has grown alongside their two dogs, Quincy and Maya. Together they have built a life in Milford, pouring their hearts into creating their dream home. Their days are filled with seaside walks collecting shells, evening trips to the local ice cream shop, Sunday mornings at church, and family gatherings that remind them how blessed they are. Then came the proposal: on what felt like the first true summer day of 2025, God marked the next chapter of their story. During an impromptu walk at the Audubon Sanctuary, Alex propped up the phone on a piece of driftwood (now treasured forever) and asked Mariah the question that sealed their promise to one another. In that moment, surrounded by God’s creation, their forever began.

Through it all, Alex and Mariah are reminded of the foundation of their love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” —1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Preparing for marriage remembering there is no greater joy than celebrating This love in the presence of family and friends.