Our Story
Our story began in the summer of 2020, in Fairmount, Philadelphia, when the world was at a standstill. Lockdowns and closures meant that nothing was open, making dating someone new...a challenge! A global pandemic couldn't stop us from connecting, though! We bonded over walks and home-cooked meals, enjoying every moment together. With so much free time to get to know each other, we often joke that our first year felt like five!
As our relationship blossomed, our shared love of the outdoors led us on many adventures. Within a year of dating we marveled at Vermont's vibrant foliage, hiked the Grand Canyon's depths, and even spent a month living in Colorado! Considering we’ve been to over 10 national parks and even more states together, it’s safe to say our travels became a highlight of our relationship, and we can't wait to explore more.
One day back in Philly, while strolling with our dog, Oliver, we stumbled upon our neighborhood community garden. We were drawn in and soon, gardening became our new passion. We spent countless hours learning and growing with Ben capturing the journey on his camera. Our love for the garden eventually grew into a year-long creation of a coffee table book about the garden and its community - a joint passion project that brought us even closer!
Then, in September 2023, Ben surprised Michele with a proposal at Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park. Tropical Storm Ophelia threatened to cancel the entire camping trip we had planned with friends, so Ben (trying not to show how anxious he was) coordinated a last-minute change and moved everything up a day. We rushed the 5 hours down to meet our friends at the meadow for a photoshoot before the storm arrived. Ben picked out the meadow because of its seclusion and tie to wildflowers for Michele, but had a good laugh when Michele whispered to him on the walk up, “Who would want to take photos here? It’s brown.” About 5 minutes later, we were engaged.
As if it was meant to be, right as we finished the proposal, the most stunning sunset broke through the clouds, covering everything in an orange glow. We met more friends at a surprise Airstream back at camp and celebrated throughout the night and next day, braving the storm. It was a memorable weekend to say the least!
We've braved more than just storms together, though. Four months before our wedding, due to some unexpected complications with our original venue, we had to change locations. Just like the proposal, it all worked out for the better! We found Callicoon Hills, an even more fitting venue that we genuinely can't wait to enjoy with you.
We’re so excited to embark on the next part of our adventure story!
