Michael and Mindy met on the first day of class when they began their PhD programs at the University of South Florida way
back in 2016. They were both beginning work on their doctorates, Michael returning to academia after a stint in AmeriCorps while Mindy had just finished her Masters.

Mindy noticed the cute brunette from the History department and made sure to sit next to him the following class. From the moment they locked eyes, they were smitten. The two began a rapport, sitting together and even arriving to class a bit early to have more time to chat. Although it took Michael until the last day of class to ask Mindy for her number, their relationship continued and blossomed into a beautiful love affair.  Michael finally asked Mindy to be his girlfriend that April.

For six years, as they finished their doctorates, their love deepened. They supported each other through long days and nights of studying, writing, and teaching. They loved exploring the city of Tampa, discovering the little gems of the city from the vintage clothing shops on Nebraska Ave, the grandeur of the Tampa Theatre, and the $3 martinis of Bernini’s happy hour. They introduced each other to their various interests the films of Hitchcock and Welles, royal history, and Mindy’s two kitties. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, Michael was great at keeping the romance alive by planning themed date-nights-in such as Rat Pack Night (1950s-60s), James Bond Night, North By Northwest Anniversary Dinner, and An Affair to Remember Valentine’s Date, to name a few.

After graduating, Michael and Mindy remained in the Tampa Bay area with their two cats, Van Gogh and Mireya. They continue to bond over their love of history, travel, and urban areas, making a life for themselves near Tampa’s Historic Ybor District.  Their love deepens every day as they connect through day-to-day living, exploring Tampa Bay, and traveling the world. In one such travel, a new story began -- the story of how Michael and Mindy will become husband and wife.