10.11.2025

Our story began with two Halloween parties, years apart. We shared some small talk, participated in group photos, and probably complimented one another on our last-minute costumes (as a lifelong Yankees fan, Matt surely had some choice words for Shannon’s interpretation of Mr. Met). After meeting for a second time in October 2021, neither of us thought much about our brief encounters. A few short weeks later, that all changed. Having sworn off dating apps once and for all, Shannon decided to give Hinge one more chance. Matt’s attempt to win her over sat patiently in her inbox and the two matched! Before going any further, both of us quickly texted our respective mutual friends (who were also the gracious hosts of the Halloween parties where we had already crossed paths) with roughly the same message, “Hey, is this so-and-so from your Halloween party?” Conversation was easy right away, and we soon decided we were ready to meet each other in-person. Not wanting to squander his shot, Matt—who does not drink wine—suggested they meet at a fancy wine bar. Matt ordered a Coke and was immediately embarrassed after the waiter gave him a judgmental glance. Sensing that Matt was uncomfortable, Shannon pointed out the dive bar across the street that was much more Matt’s speed. Once we sat down at the Skylark, we lost track of time and talked for hours. Over the next several weeks, we spent more and more time together. On December 31, 2021, we rang in both the start of a new year and the official beginning of our relationship. It all made sense the moment we sat down together and has continued to make sense ever since.

Matt knew he wanted to marry Shannon after their third date. They were going through his record collection on the floor of his apartment, and out of nowhere a sense of sureness struck him like a bolt of lightning. In that moment, it was clear that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Shannon. A proposal was still a few years off, but Matt started quietly planning from that day on. In April of 2024, under the guise of attending the party of a close friend, Matt suggested they walk around one of their favorite parks in the same neighborhood. Upon arriving at Cobble Hill Park, Matt nervously made eye contact with the photographer who was taking professional-grade pictures of a water fountain. After a lap around the park, admiring the perfectly sunny day, Matt got down on one knee and asked Shannon if she would marry him. Shannon said yes! After taking a few photos to mark the occasion, they headed back to their apartment and Matt surprised Shannon again, when they opened the door and were greeted by both of their families. They embraced, shared a few glasses of champagne, and headed into Manhattan for a celebratory dinner. Unbeknownst to Shannon, one surprise in a day full of surprises remained. They arrived at a nearby bar and were greeted by some of their closest friends—some of which had traveled thousands of miles to be there. It was a fitting end to a perfect day.