Melissa and Jesse met for the first time in July 2019 at Jesse’s “smash bash” pool party. Melissa’s friend from Camp Robindel, Ali Levine, was friends with Jesse from growing up, and told Melissa she should go to the party because she would “really like the guy” who was hosting. Melissa was leaving for Israel in two weeks—and didn’t give much thought to meeting the guy—but figured spending time outside of the city with her friend would be fun. Jesse was in his classic full hosting-mode, mingling with everyone who was there, so they had one drink together and didn’t speak for the rest of the day.   Melissa and Jesse reconnected in November 2019 at The Young Professionals Red Ball Gala, an event that their same mutual friend, Ali, was co-chairing. Not knowing each of them bought a ticket to the event, Melissa walked up to Jesse, Jesse asked her to grab a drink at the bar, and they danced the night away. Melissa knew he was special, and he won her over with his dance moves. They made plans to see each other for a date the following night, but feeling too exhausted from the night before, they ordered in matzo ball soup, shared stories, and laughed throughout the night.   When COVID-19 hit in March 2020, Jesse invited Melissa to come visit him in Westchester for the weekend. Melissa packed a bag, not knowing she would stay for the month, which would eventually turn into nine months of living with Jesse’s family (thank you to the Frankel's!).

Jesse proposed to Melissa on February 28, 2022 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Jesse asked Melissa to go for a walk before dinner, and then took Melissa down a road with a sign that said “authorized vehicles only.” Ever the rule follower, Melissa told Jesse they could not walk down that road! But before she could finish pleading, Jesse dropped down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Melissa was so speechless and surprised that Jesse said to her, “I think you need to say something!” Melissa cried and exclaimed “yes!” We are so excited to celebrate our love with all of our family and friends. See you on the dance floor!