How They Met
August 19, 2011
Ryan and Franchesca met on a summer night just before the beginning of their freshman year at Longwood University. The two dated throughout college and after graduating in 2015, both moved back to their hometowns in Hampton Roads.
How He Proposed
June 22, 2018
The proposal took place three years after they graduated from Longwood. The two decided to take a day off of work to ride their beach cruisers along Shore Drive and enjoy the views of the Chesapeake Bay. With the threats of a summer storm looming overhead, the two decided to take cover under the leaves of a nearby oak. Determined to have their beach day, they waited there for the rain to recede and decided to pass the time with some sandwiches and wine coolers.
When they arrived at the bay, it was completely deserted. Ryan walked off to secure their bikes and Franchesca walked toward the shoreline to lay out their towels. She took a moment to appreciate the post-storm serenity.
When she turned around to unpack the refreshments, Ryan was already on one knee with a small purple box in hand. Franchesca, overcome with emotion, managed to say yes. They sat there for a few more moments as another round of showers started around them. But they didn’t care.
The persistent rains didn’t stop the two from celebrating the engagement later that evening with close friends and family. They plan to say their vows at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, and hold a reception at Norfolk Botanical Garden on July 20th, 2019.
More Info 
