MaryKate and Justin matched on Bumble (Justin was the first to swipe right!) in November of 2019 while living in NoVa. After texting back and forth, they decided to meet at PunchBowl Social in Arlington on December 5, 2019. Justin was so excited for this date-- he ordered brand new shoes and made sure he was there 15 minutes early. MaryKate was equally as excited, but, she got lost in the parking garage and was late to their first date.

Despite making Justin wait in cold, the two hit it off immediately through their love of Yuengling, their music interests, and their appreciation for adventures until closing time (hard to believe 5 hours had passed!)

Fast forward to March of 2020 when COVID decided to turn the world upside down -- they decided to quarantine together, run a virtual race, and travel to NC, VA, and PA. They moved in together a few months later, and made a big move to Greensboro, NC in July of 2021 where they have had endless adventures and trips.

Their relationship was not on the “typical” timeline, but along the way, their goals and dreams in life aligned and their love continued to grow and marriage came into the picture.

Finally, on MaryKate's 30th birthday weekend, Justin had the plan to propose while they were doing one of their favorite hobbies, hiking. The hike didn’t go as planned -- MaryKate denied Lua needing a break at the top of the mountain and messed up Justin’s grand gesture. Despite the hiccup, Justin got down on one knee after their hike, with Lua by their side, and asked to become a family.

It really it amazing how a simple swipe can cause somebody to buzz into your life.