Their story began long before they knew it, just like all great love stories do…

Melissa and Ryan both graduated from Brunswick High School—Ryan in 2007 and Melissa in 2009. Remarkably, they grew up just two streets apart, with fate keeping them close until the moment was right nearly a decade later, in 2018.

During the 2006-2007 school year, Ryan attended Melissa’s competitive cheerleading competitions, unknowingly cheering for her while he supported another cheerleader on the team. They also worked at Hollister at the same time, but their schedules never aligned. Ryan fondly recalls the time Melissa came in on her day off with a friend; they exchanged a brief glance, but nothing more came of it.

After graduation, their paths continued to cross. They attended mutual graduation parties and even shared a party bus ride to a Blink-182 concert in Fall 2009, alongside three mutual friends who will stand by them on their wedding day.

While in college, Ryan visited Kent State several times and even attended two parties at Melissa’s house during College Fest and Halloween. Yet, they still never exchanged a formal introduction.

Fast forward to May 2018. Both Ryan and Melissa had recently exited previous relationships, and Melissa moved in with her Matron of Honor in Medina.

On June 3rd, their stars finally aligned. They swiped right on a dating app and matched, exchanging numbers and setting up their first date.

For those wondering if the saying holds true: timing is everything. Fate brought them together at last.