November 17th 2019. It is official UnFriend day, the day to delete all of the drama queens on Facebook. It was also the day of the first recorded case of Covid 19 in Wuhan.

It’s also the day Victoria and Jake met for the first time at River Falls in Woonsocket, RI. After connecting on the luxurious dating site “Tinder”, Jake asked Victoria to meet at River Falls. Unbeknownst to Jake this was one of Victoria’s favorite eateries. This started a pattern of Jake luckily falling sideways into romantic and meaningful coincidences.

Jake’s first thought when seeing Victoria was “Oh, she is beautiful”. Victoria’s first thought was “Thank the Lord he looks good in person.”

They both immediately felt comfortable and at home with other on their date; talking everything from Victoria’s love of photography and journalism to an hour long lecture by Jake about the intricacies of surveying, turning angles, and property law.

They immediately set up another date to see the film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood , looking for a wholesome experience. When they saw the movie was sold out they agreed to see the similarly wholesome Joker. While the change is tone was humorous, it started conversations where they realized their share of social politics, mutual aid, and activism. (Victoria would like to state for the record that she didn't like this movie, but appreciated the artistry behind it.)

Their relationship hit the ground running after that. From many dates and first experiences such as Victoria visiting Jake’s hometown on the Cape, to Victoria bringing Jake to the Wright’s Dairy Farm where they still get the best goodies.

Then came the fateful day every young couple either excites or laments - meeting the parents. Victoria’s 25th birthday was one month after they met. Her family was taking her to Spain (the restaurant, not the country, who do you think we are!?) Jake was invited. While nervous at first, just like every other one of their dating experiences, the dinner and meeting went as natural and comfortable as possible. After a night with several glasses of sangria, mom Diane famously said “He is wonderful! Don’t you dare (family-friendly verb) this up!”

Victoria met Jake’s parents when they came to visit from Florida. They went to River Falls again and just like every other time, it was natural and easy. Jake and Victoria spend a week almost yearly in Florida to watch races at the Daytona speedway with Jake’s family.

The first real complication came in March of 2020. Covid lockdowns were implemented and the future was unclear. However our couple knew there was true love blossoming and they would find a way to make it work. With careful consideration, and a whole lot of hand sanitizer, they continued dating and nurturing their love.

The years continued and the experiences continued to grow. Jake was the first one to say “I love you” because - “No way I’m saying that first!” – Victoria.

Atlantic City where that Bruce Springsteen song was, in fact, played quite a lot.

Jake having to move several times until they finally got their first apartment.

Vic finally buying a car (seriously, it took her long enough).

Camping in the White Mountains.

Early morning donut runs.

Vacations with friends.

SO MANY WINERIES.

Quaker meetings.

Dublin, which had the most amazing views of the finest brick wall.

This brings us to May 27th 2023. While being the most excited and nervous he has ever been in his life, Jake got on one knee and asked the question “Will you marry me?” Victoria answered with the most wonderful word Jake had ever heard “Yes”.

They are eloping in Ireland May 2025. They cannot wait to host their family and friends in September to celebrate!

V&J

Reception

Narragansett Brewery