Branden and Michael's story starts in 2018 when both of them were navigating the fast pace of life in Washington D.C. and dipping our toes into the dating pool. Like many a-DC professional, they initially connected on a dating app and then chatted for a few weeks before finally meeting in person at one of Michael's favorite bars on H Street called Hill Prince, on May 3, 2018. Luckily, Branden's stories about his experiences abroad captivated Michael, and Michael's wit and humor charmed Branden. The rest is history! For the past few years, Branden and Michael's friendship and relationship has grown as their lives have become intertwined (moving in shortly after the COVID pandemic started helped, too). From late night Monument hopping around DC, enjoying arts and theatre in the city, making their way through Virginia's winery scene, to spending as many long weekends as possible exploring different cities and sites, binging their favorite Netflix shows, and spending (way too much) time cuddling their dog, Prince, there is no one else with whom either would rather start and end their day! Michael took the first step to commit to Branden and proposed on the 4th anniversary of their first date - and at the same spot - in May 2022. They're now planning for this next phase of their lives together and have just bought their first home in Virginia!