In September of 2020, Rachel and Charlie first matched on Hinge. They began conversation by discussing their love of pickles and having water for the table. Charlie jumped straight to the point by sharing he was living in Connecticut and looking to move into NYC shortly- suggesting he’s sure we can make this work. Glad he was right! After another few messages, phone numbers were shared; and we texted occasionally while getting to know each other (sometimes waiting days for a reply from Charlie, but always worth it)!

November 7th, 2020, Charlie traveled into NYC where the two went to Bravest in Murray Hill where Rachel was living at the time for their first date. When first meeting, they were both in masks so there was a big question of ‘Is this the right person I’m walking up to based on the 4 pictures I've seen?’ Charlie was wearing a highlighter color plaid mask that covered half his beard and Rachel was wearing a white and black mask. After confirming their identities, the two ordered Kona Big Wave beers which then became the middle name of their puppy 2 years later. Three hours into the date, Charlie asked Rachel if she’d like to go to dinner which turned into a 7 hour date. They covered everything from interior design, family, love for dogs and NYC. Charlie walked Rachel home and gave a side hug to end the date, suggesting he’d love to see her again ‘sometime soon’.

The following day, Charlie asked Rachel to meet at a bar in midtown to watch the Cowboys/Steelers game. The dates continued over the following 4 months until Charlie moved into NYC.

Charlie would regularly make weekends trips to visit Rachel after their first date in November, 2020. 4 months later, Charlie moved to NYC to live with his 2 good friends on the Upper East Side. This quickly escalated their relationship given the closer proximity. They saw each other on a regular basis and quickly built their connection as an official couple.

By the end of the year, they decided most of their time is spent in one apartment so moving in together was the next step. They toured Long Island City, Queens and in February 2022 , moved in together. They quickly built a wonderful life living together, and in just a few months they welcomed Chester, a miniature goldendoodle puppy, into their home!

2022 was filled with many changes including moving in together, exploring life in the new neighborhood, buying a puppy, attempting to raise said puppy, all while discussing our future life plans together.

Starting 2023, we planned our first international trip together going to the Dominican Republic for a relaxing getaway. The night before, we prepped with mani/pedi’s and finished last minute packing. With a 7am flight out of JFK, we woke at 3am energized and ready to get on our way. Rachel was packing up last minute toiletries while Charlie ordered the Uber. He asked Rachel to check if she had the passports, suggesting she look in her carry on bag. Naturally, it was 3am and Rachel missed what Charlie was hinting at so he got a bit closer and pointed out, ‘what’s next to the passports?’ It was clear what was happening and seconds later, Rachel was so overjoyed she opened the ring box herself before Charlie could step in to ask the big question and put it on her finger.

3:25 am on February 16, 2023 Rachel said yes to marrying Charlie Cross which will forever be a special moment to reflect on for the two. Hours later, we touched down in the DR for 5 days of pure bliss to celebrate our engagement!