This is not a story about a friend introducing you to the most beautiful person you’ve ever seen, or about meeting at a bar, on an app, or even about meeting the neighbor next door. This is a story of how two people in high school who were nothing more than friendly towards each other, were oblivious to what the future held for them or would come to be. Mitch and Amanda attended a performing arts high school together. Always friendly, but never close. After graduation they fell out of touch for almost 10 years. However, in 2023, one of their music teachers, Mr. Bonazzo, passed away. To honor him, a concert to honor their loved teacher was held at the school in mid-June and organized by their other teacher, Dr. DeQuattro. What could have been a sad, solemn event turned into a beautiful celebration of Mr. B’s life, as well as an unlikely high school reunion. Now reconnected, Mitch and Amanda caught up on life and shared what they had been up to since graduation. That day, Amanda mentioned she was excited about her upcoming solo hiking trip in Shenandoah National Park. Mitch, who had been living in Virginia for years, was surprised to hear she may be passing through. What a coincidence! Shortly thereafter, a few days before Amanda's trip, Mitch realized that he had an extra concert ticket to see The Head and the Heart the same day of her arrival. What are the odds?! With finesse, Mitch “slid into her DMs” and begged and pleaded for her to join him. After some convincing, Amanda said yes to his request to the show. After all, she was just trying to "find herself" on this solo trip. They hit it off after the concert as if they had been best friends for the longest time. Fast forward to many back and forth visits between Connecticut and Virginia, it was not too long before Amanda made the move in March of 2024. Mitch and Amanda knew right away they were meant to be together. Their shared interests, musical talents, and ability to understand each other deepened their connection. Most importantly, Mitch's sense of humor flattered Amanda. His impeccable timing in delivering punchlines, and his creativity in having a knack for finding humor in the little things, often turns their moments together into memorable, laughter-filled experiences. At the same time, Amanda’s compassion, love of life, and desire to experience new things together brought Mitch a sense of love and commitment he’d only thought was real in movies. It was no surprise that Mitch would soon propose to Amanda a year later. On August 30th of 2024, Mitch got down on one knee after a delicious lunch in the town of Alexandria, but unfortunately, Amanda said no. Joking! She said "of course I will you stupid." Anyway... that is our story! Now we are looking forward to spend our special day with our closest friends and families. We are so grateful for the support from everyone, and thank you for being a part of our story and many stories to come! See you there! <3 :)