Michelle had recently moved back to Raleigh after living out west for a few years and begrudgingly gave online dating a shot. A week after messaging Andrew, who was on vacation in Florida with his family, he finally messaged her back (luckily). The online conversation quickly led to an in-person trial run at Fenton in Cary on a chilly April evening. Despite Andrew not being smart enough to wear a jacket, the chemistry, humor, goals, interests and all the important life-stuff seemingly aligned enough to hang out for a three location night.

Fast forward a few months later, the two found themselves introducing each other to family, going on trips to Niagara Falls and the Outer Banks, hosting events with friends, and slowly but surely removing the other's dating skepticism. Michelle's family, living locally in Raleigh, were more than welcoming to Andrew in all of their family events. Having lived far away from his family most of his adult life and recently losing one of his closest friends, Andrew felt like he'd been given some crazy stroke of luck being surrounded by so many new amazing people.

Being two very independent adults, both decided to really put things to the test and Andrew got upgraded from boyfriend to tenant + boyfriend when he moved in with Michelle in early 2025. Everything seemed so easy being around each other and the love they had for each other grew. Their complementary personalities and care for each other culminated in August that year when Andrew popped the question prior to their Europe vacation - she didn't even hold it against him that he biffed the engagement dinner reservations!

After getting back from some much needed R&R overseas, the two began excitedly planning the celebration of their love and that's where their story currently sits - looking forward to sharing good times with their family and friends!