Michele and Matthew's story began in what some may say is a very traditional, yet "untraditional" way for this era. Michele was working at Lakeland Regional High School when she crossed paths with a fellow English teacher, Kathy Garofano, in the copy room one day. Little did Michele know at the time that Kathy was Matthew's aunt. Kathy made small talk with Michele and felt like there was some force making her feel as though she and Matthew were meant to be. She showed Michele some pictures of Matthew and asked if she would be open to exchanging contact information.

Michele texted Matthew shortly after and they met up for their somewhat of a "blind date" together at Dave & Buster's. Matthew said he picked the place "in case things got awkward we could play games." Needless to say things didn't get awkward. They spoke at the bar for nearly 4 hours and not a game was played.

They have been through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows together since that day. The passing of Michele's beloved dad Sal in January of 2022 shook the world of everyone who knew him. Matthew and Sal had grown very close over the course of their time dating and he would have been so proud to see him and Michele get engaged. There was no doubt that night that he was watching over them while Matthew got on one knee to propose. The two had taken a July 2022 summer trip to Boston to explore the city and see a Yankees vs. Red Sox game. If anyone knows Michele, they know how much she loves the Red Sox and how she and her dad shared a special bond being huge fans together. Boston has always held a special place in her heart.

On the night of 7/7/22, Matthew and Michele had just finished eating dinner at Giacomo's in the Little Italy section of Boston and then they decided to take a stroll around Quincy Market. At this point, little did Michele know that Matthew was getting a bit anxious as dusk was approaching and he wanted to capture the perfect shot for their engagement. Matthew finally convinced Michele to head back to their hotel room where he picked up his tripod. He told Michele that he heard Boston Gardens was a great place to take photos together. Matthew was nervous as he sought out the perfect location, and then came across a beautiful bed of flowers that sat against the Boston skyline. He asked that Michele turn around so he could "frame the shot." A few moments later, Michele turned around to Matthew on one knee. He was too nervous to pop the question so Michele had to do a little reminding ;)

Her guardian angel dad was most definitely watching over them in the moment. Approximately 10 minutes prior to Michele calling her mom Debbie with the big news, a cardinal landed on a telephone pole right in front of her as she was walking outside. For those of you who don't know, it is strongly believed that cardinals are birds sent from Heaven as spiritual messengers and carriers of the soul. It is believed that Sal was sending the message to Debbie that he was with the couple as the proposal was happening.

7/7/22 is a day that Matthew and Michele will never forget, as it officially marked the beginning of the rest of their lives together.