Once Upon a Time… all the way back in the fall of 2018, Victoria was a sophomore and Jake was a junior at Duquesne University. Though they both lived on campus, their paths strangely didn’t cross until one fateful similarity brought the two of them together. As their loved ones know, Victoria and Jake both have food allergies. And both are “one in a million” because unlike everyone else, they did not outgrow their allergies.

Yes it is true, Victoria had many mishaps her first year of college: adjusting to life on campus while trying to not eat something that would cause her demise was quite stressful. As it turns out, her favorite chef Amanda, knew just what to do. Although at first Victoria was too stubborn to take her advice, she eventually acquiesced and agreed to meet this Knight in Shining Armour, who supposedly had figured out how to navigate this challenging world. Amanda insisted she go out to dinner with Jake. Victoria figured, “Sure, why not meet the guy once, I doubt this will be useful and I probably will never run into him again.”

She most definitely ran into him again.

One evening, Jake asked Victoria to get tacos with him at a tiny hole-in-the-wall place called Docé (If you know, you know). Victoria was ecstatic!!! She couldn’t wait to go! Eating out at restaurants was cherished and special for someone in her shoes. One dinner turned into two, which turned into three… and as time went on, they became inseparable- watching movies, going to formals, going on fishing trips and ski trips, and so on!

The couple continued to grow their in love together. Not even a pandemic could break this bond. They had been together for a little over a year when the world shut down in March 2020. Between Jake graduating college and travel restrictions, Victoria had no idea when she could see him again. Despite everyone’s advice not to, they made it work long distance for a year during the pandemic. If you ask them, it was the best decision they ever made!

Stronger than ever, Victoria moved to Philly in the Summer of 2021 where their love story continued. Although their apartment was small, and life was still stressful, nothing could compare to the happiness of finally being together again. Fast forward a few years to December 29, 2023, Jake proposed… and she said YES!! They are now on their way to starting their biggest adventure yet. Stay tuned to see what excitement awaits them next!

To be Continued...

02.15.2025 💍