On July 1, 2019, Ryan hosted a small Canada Day party at his sister Lacey and brother-in-law Kevin’s house. Brittany, CJ’s older sister and Ryan’s friend, invited CJ to join. They exchanged a simple “nice to meet you” and went on their way that night. For the next couple of months, the two continued to see each other in group settings, mainly just partying away as 19 and 22 year old’s do.

On October 3, 2019, CJ and Ryan were asked to help setup for an event by the waterfront before their friends arrived. Ryan being Ryan, started quacking at ducks, cracking jokes, and throwing flirtatious, but subtle comments towards CJ. Later that evening, when the group went out for dinner, Ryan casually threw out that he was single and CJ told Brittany that she may or may not think Ryan was cute.

On October 14, 2019, thanksgiving rolled around and the group wanted to get together for Friendsgiving which was hosted at CJ’s house. She was excited for Ryan to arrive, making sure she was the one to open the door for every guest in hopes it would be him on the other side. Throughout the day/evening the two gravitated towards each other, shared some Moscato, and it was clear there was something there to explore. Later that evening, when everyone went home, CJ received an Instagram DM from Ryan thanking her for hosting and made sure to tell her she was gorgeous. The two spoke and saw each other every single day after that. They fell in love instantly, becoming inseparable, which led them to move into their first apartment after only 4 months.

Fast forward to January 21, 2024, the two were partaking on a catamaran ride in beautiful Costa Rica with Jamie, Pat, and Joe (Ryan’s sister and grandparents), where Ryan – in front of a volcano – got down on one knee. The two have been happily engaged since and has led them to this moment. Being able to celebrate their union with their closest friends and family will be a memory cherished forever.