Madelyn and Ben met the way all the fun Richmond couples do: working at the Faison Center for Autism. Madelyn, thinking she was being sly, invited Ben out for a casual coffee under the guise of asking about his grad-school experience, careful not to describe it as a "date." Ben, however, saw right through her ruse. Following the success of their coffee chat, Ben decided their second date needed a home-cooked meal and invited Madelyn over to dine on what would be the first of many deliciously prepared dinners. Over the course of their time together, Ben and Madelyn conquered dating long distance, job changes, a global pandemic, and becoming first-time cat parents to their adorable calico, Minnie. They've hiked in Asheville, shivered in wintry Quebec, and listened to smooth jazz in New Orleans. In October of 2022, after nearly six years together, Ben got down on one knee and asked Madelyn to marry him. They are very excited to spend the rest of their lives traveling, eating pasta, and taking pictures of their beloved cat.