It all started with a swipe in 2021—modern romance at its finest. 


Ericka and Zach met on Hinge and agreed to meet in person at Ocean Wave in Virginia-Highlands. Over sushi rolls and shared smiles, something clicked. He made her laugh the entire time (still does), and she looked like she had just walked out of a movie—effortlessly stunning and just a little intimidating. By the end of dinner, Zach had already promised to cook for her one day—something to her delight, that he continues to do.


From that night on, it wasn’t long before the two became inseparable. Whether they were deep in conversation, cooking together or creating incredible memories on their travels together—they just fit. Their love for each other was undeniable, and with their critters—Lucy, a sassy French bulldog, and Little Dan a treat loving Ragdoll cat—their lives continued to grow together. 

In 2024, on a hillside vineyard in Italy, Zach put on a custom blazer (with “vuoi sposarmi” embroidered on the inside) and tried to keep his cool. The ring was hidden in his pocket, and Ericka almost spotted it—but he pulled it off. He asked, she said yes, and somewhere nearby, the wine tasted even better than usual.


Zach always said he’d marry Ericka and her critters—and now, he finally gets to.