Our story begins like many modern romances: with and dating profile and a little bit of hope. Both of us were navigating the uncharted waters of online dating, not entirely sure what we would find but determined to believe that love might still be out there. Match.com became the unexpected stage for our love story.

Our messages began as simple introductions but quickly turned into conversations filled with laughter, curiosity, and the kind of honesty that comes from having lived enough life to know what truly matters. Eventually we decided to meet, prompted by Dina asking "So, are you going to ask me out, or what?!"

Dating in our fifties brought its own unique joys and challenges. We weren’t starting from scratch; we were two people with rich histories, grown children, and plenty of life lessons. But instead of these being obstacles, they became the building blocks of our bond. We understood the importance of patience, acceptance, compromise, and laughter—especially laughter. Whether it was teasing him about his cooking "experiments" (and his fondness for adding too much salt) or her knack at "winning" every debate, our relationship was always filled with lighthearted moments that balanced the serious ones.

Through the months our love grew in ways neither of us expected. He made her laugh endlessly and brought out the adventurer in her, encouraging her to step out of her comfort zone and try new things. She mellowed him out a bit, reminding him that a night at home is a beautiful thing and that too much salt, fried food and beer can be a bad, bad thing. Together, we found a partnership that felt like home—steady, warm, and full of possibility.

Now, as we prepare to take the next step in our journey, we’re reminded of how far we’ve come—two hearts that found each other in a sea of possibilities. Our story isn’t just about how we met or how we dated; it’s about the life we’re building together. It’s about second chances, the courage to love again, and the beauty of finding someone who feels like your forever, no matter when they arrive in your life.

As we look ahead to our wedding day in Punta Cana, surrounded by the people we love most, we’re filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the journeys that brought us here and for the love that continues to grow every single day. This is our story, and it’s just beginning.

M&D

Wedding Day