Our first photo together, snapped by one of our favorite toddlers (and future ring bearer)

A tale as old as time... or at least as old as dating apps.

Like many modern love stories, ours began with a swipe. In early June 2023, Emma was killing time at LAX waiting for a flight. With hours to spare and nothing but overpriced snacks in sight, she opened Hinge. One profile caught her eye. Matthew’s big smile drew her in. She swiped right.

At that exact moment, Matthew was mid-workout at the gym when he saw the match notification pop up. He replied immediately (ever the multitasker).

Though our summer travel schedules didn’t line up right away, we kept up a steady stream of banter for nearly two weeks before finally meeting in person for drinks at Emissary, a cozy bar/café perfectly positioned between our apartments. Emma, fresh off an intense day-long meeting, had only planned to stay for one drink. One drink turned into two as the conversation flowed so naturally that neither of us wanted to leave.

For Emma, it was unexpectedly easy. Within an hour of saying goodnight, she texted Matthew about a second date, blissfully unaware she was breaking any so-called dating “rules” (this was only her second first date in a looooong time, after all). Matthew, of course, didn’t mind one bit because for him, it was love at first sight.

From there, a few dates a week turned into spending nearly every day together. Since then, we've celebrated the highest highs together and supported one another through the tough stuff. Somewhere along the way, it became clear we weren’t just dating—we were building a life.

Which brings us to the proposal.

Spoiler: Emma did eventually say, "Yes!"

When: A cold, rainy Friday night in January.

Where: Emma’s messy apartment.

What Emma assumed was happening: A date night at their favorite spot, Sushi Taro.

What was actually happening: A very happy surprise!

Emma was puttering around the apartment in her bathrobe, unpacking a long-forgotten suitcase, folding laundry, and decidedly not getting ready for date night. Meanwhile, Matthew was getting increasingly nervous, trying to stay calm and find the right moment to pop the question.

Primary Source Documentation

With a dinner reservation looming, he gently nudged Emma to get dressed. Had she known what was coming, she would have at least shaved her legs. But instead, she threw on some clothes, added a little mascara, and returned to cleaning. While she buzzed around the apartment, Matthew casually mentioned he had a little date night gift. “Flowers?” she asked excitedly. When Matthew shook his head, she replied, “Oh, cool. Can you put these sweaters in the closet, please?”

As Emma finally plopped down on the couch after putting everything away, Matthew took a deep breath and handed Emma a wedding-themed needlepoint canvas he’d sneakily ordered. She looked at him with confusion, he got down on one knee to propose. Through happy tears, Emma said, “Why did you let me fold all those clothes?” and then put the ring on her own finger. After being reminded that she did, in fact, need to give a verbal answer to Matthew’s question, she said, “Yes!”

An obligatory Engagement-Night-Mirror-Selfie before dashing to dinner

It was imperfectly perfect: At home. On the couch. And just a little bit messy.

And now we’re here, excited to share our story with you—and to celebrate the next chapter with the people we love most.