It all began with a simple swipe. Returning to the University of Hartford for her final year of college after a Covid-induced hiatus, Shannon anticipated a lack of familiar faces. She wasn’t living on campus anymore and she wanted to expand her social group. Hearing about Bumble's potential for friendship-building, she decided to reinstall the app for that purpose, having deleted it over the summer to focus on platonic connections. However, upon opening the app, she realized she was still in the dating section. Despite this, Chris's profile immediately drew her attention with his captivating smile. In the world of Bumble, it's the woman who must initiate conversation, so Shannon faced a decision—and she chose to message Chris. As soon as she swiped on Chris it was a match, meaning that Chris had already made the decision to want to match. Chris said that when he read Shannon’s profile bio, he just knew that he needed to meet this girl in person and see her beautiful smile.


The two of them spent the next two weeks chatting away and getting to know each other. They had so much in common that they both felt like this bond couldn't be real. They planned a date to meet in West Hartford for dinner and that night, they both knew that there was something special between them. Over dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, their conversation flowed effortlessly with laughter filling the air as they discovered shared interests and values. As the evening unfolded and three hours had passed, it became clear to both Shannon and Chris that they had stumbled upon something rare and beautiful—a connection that transcended the confines of a dating app. That night marked the beginning of a journey, their own journey!

Shannon and Chris started dating exclusively just a week after their first date. Chris was working full time, attending college classes, and deejaying on the side. Shannon was a full-time student completing her bachelor's degree in elementary & special education and studying for the Praxis exams to obtain her teaching certification. Despite their hectic schedules, they prioritized spending time together every weekend, whether it was exploring new places across Connecticut or simply enjoying cozy nights in cooking dinner together. As the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months, their bond only grew stronger. Before they knew it, they were creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

As the summer of 2022 unfolded, time seemed to pause for Shannon and Chris. Graduating college on the same day marked a significant milestone in their journey. With Chris landing a job at Rebel Interactive, the burden of juggling multiple jobs lifted, allowing them to savor more moments together. Becoming avid travel companions, they embarked on adventures that enriched their bond and deepened their connection. Together, they continued to grow, supporting each other's dreams and accomplishments every step of the way. Whether it was furthering their careers, exploring new hobbies, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, Shannon and Chris thrived in each other's company, finding strength and joy in their shared experiences. As they looked toward the future, their love only grew stronger.

In the span of two years, Chris and Shannon's journey has been filled with remarkable adventures. They've explored over 10 different states, creating cherished memories along the way. From the serene shores of Hilton Head Island to the majestic beauty of Lake George, from the rugged landscapes of Arizona to the timeless charm of Cape Cod, each destination holds a special place in their hearts.


As their bond grew stronger, Chris felt it was time to take their relationship to the next level. For months, he meticulously planned the perfect proposal. Knowing Shannon's love for witnessing the sunrise on their trips together, he knew she'd be unsuspecting, as waking up early to catch the sunrise was a ritual they shared on every journey, making his surprise all the more magical. On May 27, 2023, as they prepared to watch the sunrise on a Cape Cod beach like they often did, Chris seized the moment, dropping to one knee, ready to ask Shannon a question that would change their lives forever.

Fast forward to now, Shannon and Chris have built a solid foundation together. Shannon achieved her teaching certification with Chris' unwavering support, and they've settled into life in Southington, CT, with their cat Midnight. Despite their busy schedules, they still make time for adventures and are eagerly anticipating their wedding. Whether it's cooking together, snuggling up with their cat on the couch, or planning their next getaway, their love continues to grow stronger with each passing day, sprinkled with moments of pure joy and laughter.