It’s happening!

We are a Hinge success story that almost didn't happen! After one already-cancelled meet up and a new date tentatively set, Lauren texted Ben that she was almost at the restaurant, The Hideaway. Ben wasn't exactly ready, and suggested Lauren order some wings while she waited. At the time, Lauren didn't like wings and ordered crab dip instead. Once Ben got to The Hideaway, Lauren knew he was worth the wait and Ben was hooked despite her then-distaste for wings. We both saw fireworks that night and knew in our hearts that we had found something rare and special. We love going back to The Hideaway—and now always order wings—to recreate that magic.

Ben first proposed in October 2019, when he asked Lauren to elope. Part of Lauren wishes she'd said yes, which is why she in turn proposed eloping during lockdown in June 2020. We're happy we waited, though, because we couldn't be more excited to celebrate with all of you! As for the real proposal, Ben created the perfect moment for Lauren while we were on vacation with Lauren's family in Disney World. Lauren had taken her first steps at the Polynesian Resort in Disney, so what better place to take the next big step in life? Before the trip, Ben asked Lauren's parents for her hand. They of course said yes, but Lauren's mom added, "But don't you dare wait until the end of the trip. I couldn't take the suspense!" After a thrilling day in the park, we watched the fireworks over the castle in Magic Kingdom. Lauren didn't know it then, but the ring was in Ben's pocket the whole time. Ben knew it wasn't the right moment, however, as the crowd was too big and he knew that Lauren wouldn't want the attention. (He was absolutely right.) We then took a romantic ferry ride back to the Polynesian. Snuggled up on the boat, Ben almost popped the question there, but again decided it was too public. (Another excellent call.) As we got off the boat, Lauren's parents were waiting on the beach outside the resort, having just watched the fireworks themselves, and wondering if Ben had relieved Lauren's mom of the suspense. Lauren's mom invited us to grab a drink before heading to bed, to which we agreed, but not until after we went back to our room to change. Alone in our room, Ben put on some of our favorite music and we relaxed for a bit after a long Disney day. Finally, Lauren asked, "should we go meet my mom?" Ben replied, "Yes, but first, I need to ask you a question," and got down on one knee. By the time we met her mom for that drink, the bar was actually closed, but in true Disney fashion, after we told them what had just happened, they brought us some champagne to celebrate.

Our ceremony and reception will be held at the Mt. Washington Mill-Dye House on September 23, 2022. 1340 Smith Avenue Baltimore, MD 21209