It all began on a crisp autumn day in Rochester, NY, where the golden leaves danced in the breeze, and fate quietly worked its magic. Marissa and Rylan’s paths crossed in the fall of 2017 at St. John Fisher University, two young souls unknowingly standing at the beginning of a love story that would stand the test of time. From the very first glance, there was something undeniable between them—an intrigue, a pull, as if the universe had already written their story in the stars.

By some serendipitous twist, they found themselves living on the same floor of Dorsey Hall. Marissa, ever bold and determined, made every excuse to knock on Rylan’s door, sparking conversations that she never wanted to end. She didn’t just feel drawn to him—she knew. With absolute certainty, she told her family, her friends, and anyone who would listen: “I’m going to marry Rylan Dean someday.”

Their worlds naturally intertwined—Marissa, a fierce competitor on the Fisher softball team, and Rylan, a dedicated player for Fisher baseball. Their circles overlapped, their weekends often spent at the Rosedale apartment with friends, exchanging playful banter and stolen glances, each waiting—hoping—for the other to make the first move. But youth has a way of clouding the obvious, and so, for years, they remained close, oblivious to the depth of what they had.

Then, in 2020, everything changed. Marissa had just started her first job as a nurse in Rochester, while Rylan was finishing his master’s degree. Life was moving forward, but something was missing. When Marissa’s friends attempted to set her up on a blind date, it hit her like a lightning bolt—there was no one in this world she wanted to be with more than Rylan Dean. The very next day, as they walked side by side, they finally laid their feelings bare. And just like that, all the years of laughter, friendship, and quiet longing fell perfectly into place.

That Friday, Rylan picked Marissa up for their first real date. As she excitedly got ready, her sister and roommate peeked from the balcony, giddy with anticipation. The reservation was for 4 PM, but time slipped away unnoticed as they talked for hours, lost in the effortless ease of each other’s company. When they finally left at closing time, there was no doubt—this was it. This was forever.

Three years later, on a breathtaking weekend in Vermont, Rylan got down on one knee, their sweet baby girl, Maple, by their side. As the autumn leaves swirled around them, Marissa’s dream became a reality. Overcome with emotion, she barely managed to say “yes” through her happy tears—though she had known the answer all along.

Now, as they step into this next beautiful chapter, they cannot wait to celebrate their love with the people who have been part of their journey from the start. August cannot come soon enough! Xo.

Registry: New Home Fund