Michael and Rachel met over the Fourth of July weekend in 2024, when Rachel traveled to Tampa with her roommate and bridesmaid, Kate Hinson, to visit Kate’s dad. Kate had been talking to Stephen Echevarria, who is one of Michael’s groomsmen, and the two had plans to spend some time together over the weekend. Rachel was fully prepared to third-wheel. That changed when Stephen brought along his roommate, Michael. Michael and Rachel immediately hit it off and ended up spending the entire long weekend together. There was even an early attempt at sweeping each other off their feet, although Michael did most of the falling after massively wiping out while getting onto the boat. Nevertheless, Rachel still liked him. When the weekend ended, Rachel figured she probably wouldn’t see "Michael Tampa" again. A few weeks later, she got a text that Michael had booked a flight to Birmingham to come visit her. From there, their relationship grew through countless flights between Birmingham and Tampa, long weekends together, and slowly becoming part of each other’s everyday lives. In January 2026, Michael moved to Birmingham, and they finally got to experience what life looked like when they weren’t counting down to the next flight. On Rachel’s birthday, Michael proposed on the back porch of the home they had purchased together, the home they’ll officially make their own after the wedding. Rachel had been completely thrown off the scent, making the surprise even better. They celebrated afterward at Rachel’s parents’ house with their friends and family. This season of their lives has shown them what it means to love and be loved, and they couldn't be more thankful for the people who have celebrated them so fully along the way. Now, they’re most excited for the what comes next: getting married, making their home in Vestavia, and building a life together.