We technically first met on Hinge, only to then realize we both worked at Boston Childrens Hospital. Manny was working as a security officer, and I was working as a clinical assistant in the Emergency Room. As Manny likes to tell the story, thank God I responded when I did because he was going to unmatch with me.


Our first date was at The Mission Bar & Grill. I was just shy of my 21st birthday and was living in Mission Hill at the time, funny because Mission Hill is where Manny was born and raised.

From that night on, our relationship flourished.


We went on weekend getaways, attended sports games, enjoyed many dinner dates, all while enjoying each other’s company and getting to know each other.


Fast forward to 2020, the year no one wants to remember. We unofficially moved into an apartment in Weymouth together. Then came our fur baby, Louie. I always wanted a dog of my own and I didnt have to do much convincing on Mannys part. His only dog he had growing up he tried flushing down the toilet, but we won’t get into that.

I did plenty of research on breeds, local breeders, etc and soon fell in love with an all-black Labradoodle down in PA. A few days later, we hit the road to bring him home. Louie (born as Ross) is the light of our light, our pride and joy, and our best friend. Raising a dog together was a big step in testing both our patience and strength as a couple, but we wouldnt change any of it for the world.


Months later, the world shut down. I was working the frontlines as a nurse on a COVID unit and Manny was able to be a stay-at-home dog dad and working remotely. If we were able to make it through a pandemic and come out stronger than ever, I knew our relationship was for forever.


The following year we moved back to the city in West Roxbury. We both continued to save our money, as our end goal was to own our first home together.


A short year and some change later, open house after open house, and a few failed inspections, we landed on Myrtle St in Norwood. Yes, its only a 3 min drive from my mother and yes, we see her at least twice a week. Safe to say we had our triumphs with this house. Some unexpected costs that people love to remind us is part of being a homeowner. We do love Myrtle and have learned so much about being homeowners and having such big responsibilities. Our first home has taught us more about our relationship and our ability to overcome financial challenges as they come along.


Of course youre wondering now, wheres the ring? Well, I always told Manny I wanted Louie to be involved in the process, which I thought he knew. But instead on September 2nd, 2023, on a vacation in Charleston, South Carolina, Manny got down on one knee and proposed. Truthfully, I blacked out during this time and had no idea what he said but we were both crying and of course I said yes! We called all our family and friends to share the big news, and the whole time my mom knew! If you know Mary Ellen, you know shes not one to keep a secret well, so good on you Mom. It did come as a small surprise to me, as Louie wasnt there, but it was just as perfect as I would have imagined.


And now here we are, wedding planning!


Check back here for all you need to know about our upcoming nuptials on May 17th, 2025!! We cant wait to celebrate with all of you!