After completing her education and spending several years in Pittsburgh, Michelle made a life-changing decision in 2016 to relocate to Arlington/Washington DC. Embracing this new chapter, she embarked on a career as a special education teacher at West Springfield Elementary School, crossing paths with Danielle Grifo, who would soon become a good friend. Their connection deepened as they discovered shared roots in Pittsburgh, ties to the University of Maryland, and a mutual appreciation for fine wine.
The pivotal moment in Michelle's journey occurred during Danielle's fiancé (now husband) Curt's birthday celebration in January 2017. The gathering, filled with friends and football, introduced Michelle to Curt's friend Kevin. Despite a promising initial meeting, fate took its course, leading to a two-year hiatus in their connection.
Fast forward two and a half years, Danielle and Curt had relocated from Arlington to Annapolis, Kevin's hometown. In August 2019, Michelle visited Danielle in Annapolis, coinciding with Kevin and his friend Matt attending a wedding in California. As Kevin shared glimpses of his picturesque journey along the California coast on Instagram, Michelle, captivated by the scenery, reached out to him with a direct message on Instagram. This marked the revival of communication after a two-year gap. Kevin responded, initiating a conversation that eventually led to him asking Michelle out on a date.
A few weeks later, Michelle returned to Annapolis, where Kevin planned a memorable date—a cocktail cruise on his boat. Fast forward four years, and the same boat became the backdrop for a significant moment in their journey: Kevin proposed to Michelle, revisiting the site where they had shared their first date.