Our love story began in the fall of 2024, when both of us were looking to find our perfect match, on none other than Facebook Dating. If you know Matt, his love for Facebook marketplace runs deep so, it was only fitting for him to try to find love on there, right? After both of us tirelessly searched high and low for someone worth sharing life with, a little nudge from my best friend to try a modern take on dating and Matt’s unwavering belief in finding the ‘ultimate deal’ we struck a match! Some might say love at first swipe, but for us, it was that unmistakable feeling deep down that tells you this could be something truly special.
Our first date was in true Floridian fashion at South Florida’s finest, Flanigan's. Nothing says ‘this could be forever’ more than rib rolls, fries and beer, am I right? That night felt effortless, though, no forced small talk or awkward long pauses, only laughter and long conversations of our everyday lives. It felt like a familiar warmth, as if we had known each other our whole lives. A kind of connection you always secretly hope for but never actually, expect to find, especially with someone you just met. I never would have imagined we’d connect so quickly over our shared interests but there we were talking about fishing, hunting, our pets, wild adventures, goals, and family. It felt like a connection we’d been searching for entire lives, and we weren’t ready to let it go.
After our first date, we knew we had something special worth holding onto, and from that moment forward, we were inseparable. Matt moved in and found himself loving not only me but my 2 dogs and 11 chickens. As crazy as it seemed, he somehow knew this was just where he was meant to be. Our months have been filled with a whirlwind of nonstop fun. From buying a side by side and taking it out mudding, visiting Matt’s family
in Orlando, to going to our friends’ ranch almost every month, rescuing a stray dog we found on Lake Osbourne, fishing adventures and a family trip to the Bahamas our lives have been pure happiness since that first swipe. We knew we wanted to continue this adventure for the rest of our lives.
Fast forward to May 2025, little to my knowledge, Matt had a plan to propose. While he knew for months he wanted to; he had to figure out the best way without tipping me off- which was a challenge in itself. So, he thought what better way to pop the question than out at a ranch? A place we both love going to that is filled with so many fun times for the both of us. With the plan in motion and the help of our friends and my brother, Scott, we made the drive on an early Saturday morning. Still not knowing what would transpire that night, we had ourselves an unforgettable day. When sunset came, Matt got down on one knee and asked me to be his forever. Without any hesitation, I said yes. In that moment everything made sense. I understood every wrong turn, every moment of doubt had a purpose, they were leading me all to him. The one who loves me wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Who sees beyond every challenge I’ve faced and still chooses me every day. While the roads we took to finding each other weren’t always easy, we both knew deep down there was something greater just waiting. And now, here we are. We found it and found each other.
We can’t wait to begin this exciting new chapter as husband and wife. Having our closest friends and family by our side to celebrate this moment means more to us than words can ever say. We hope you will enjoy every part of our special day and make unforgettable memories to share with us. So, here’s to love, laughter, and finally becoming Mr. & Mrs. Haffner—let the celebration countdown begin!