Melanie and Ryan first matched on a dating app and spent almost two years talking on and off before ever meeting in person. They would occasionally re-match, pick up the conversation again, and promise to set up a date—but timing never quite lined up. Finally, on April 6, 2025, they made it happen, and it was absolutely worth the wait.

Within the first month of dating, Melanie and Ryan packed in as much fun as possible—playing pickleball, going to an arcade, visiting a speakeasy, topgolf, and more. Very quickly, it felt as if they had known each other forever.

They bonded over their shared love of music, especially country, and have since gone to many concerts together. They also love attending sporting events, traveling and spending time with family—especially with their beloved nieces and nephews. Melanie and Ryan's families also immediately got along incredibly well, blending together as if they had known each other for years. Melanie and Ryan enjoy time with friends, exploring new places, or hosting a competitive (but loving!) game night.

It didn’t take long for Melanie and Ryan to know they had found the person they wanted to marry. Ryan spent months driving from Delray to Fort Lauderdale for dates until Melanie, along with her dog Maci and her cat, stayed with him in Delray for a few weeks. After that, they both realized she wouldn’t be moving back—living together just felt right. Since then, the four of them have made a happy home in Delray.

On November 26, 2025, Ryan proposed to Melanie during a romantic beach setup in Delray, the perfect beginning to their forever.