Sarah and Matthew met at Hofstra University when they were 18. They were both Music Education majors, which meant they took almost every class together for the next four years. They spent many, many days eating dinner together before rehearsal and doing homework together until 2:00 am. They went on a few dates their freshman year, but ultimately decided not to pursue a relationship at that point. Afterward, they dated other people but were always close friends. Their friendship felt easy, comfortable, and safe. They encouraged each other and talked about the futures they envisioned for their lives.

Sarah and Matthew started dating again after their graduation from Hofstra. Sarah was living in Newburgh, NY, and Matthew was living on Long Island. Their homes were a hundred miles apart, but they visited each other often and talked every day. Finally, Sarah got a job teaching in Queens, and she and Matthew moved in together on Long Island. They began building a home and a life together.

On May 22, 2022, Matthew proposed on the same beach where they had gone on their very first date at 18 years old. It was the easiest "yes" of Sarah's life!