The two first met at Case Western Reserve in 2018 when Gabby, who was president of a Greek Life organization, was looking for someone to take over her role. At first, Gabby found Chris to be a little hot-to-trot (as if she wasn’t herself). And while Chris recognized that Gabby could be loud and over the top, he admired her wit and was always laughing, whether with Gabby or at her.

In the most Gen-Z fashion, the two “crossed paths” again on Hinge. They met for their first date at Saucy Brew Works in Hingetown, and since Gabby didn’t have a car or a driver’s license, Chris picked her up for the date the “old-fashioned” way.

Five hours, a large pie, and a few beers later, a second date was planned for the next day...

After that, the two were inseparable, and Chris was quickly introduced to Chai, Gabbys French Bulldog. While he’d never had a pet of his own and certainly never saw himself becoming a dog dad, he knew earning Chai's stamp of approval was essential to Gabby. And though Chai has always been a tough judge of character, after many cuddles, rides in the car, and sharing his banana chips, Chris managed to win her over. Now, the three of them love going to Chai's favorite parks and treating her to pup cups at Swenson's.

Gabby and Chris also share a love of sports. Chris, a die-hard baseball fan, has dragged Gabby to countless games, and the two have endured many Guardians/Yankees matchups, even though Gabby’s Yankees always seem to come out on top. Golfing has also become one of their favorite activities after Chris gifted Gabby lessons. Now, they can’t get enough of it and even plan some of their trips around it!

In November of 2024, Chris planned a special trip to propose to Gabby at a ‘Getaway’ cabin, where they had enjoyed going to unplug in past years. With heroic efforts from both of their moms, he was able to get the ring from New York to Cleveland just in time to propose. The cabin was beautifully decorated with candles and flowers, and when they walked in, Chai presented the ring in a pouch that read, “Will you marry my dad?” With Chris on one knee and Chai looking up at her, Gabby couldn’t say no…

As much as Gabby hates to admit when she’s wrong, she will happily admit she was wrong about her first impressions of Chris. The two could not be more excited to take the next step and can't wait to share their special day with everyone!

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Hampton Inn and Suites - Beachwood