Chris and Madison’s story began long before either of them realized it. They crossed paths in high school and even found themselves at the same Zac Brown Band concert at Bethel Woods, never imagining that years later they would be telling this story together. Growing up just 30 minutes apart only makes it clearer that timing, not distance, was always the missing piece.

Years later, life brought them back into each other’s orbit. Madison was living and teaching in Rhode Island, while Chris had settled in Charleston. When Instagram did what Instagram does best and started putting Chris back on Madison’s radar, a quiet reconnection began. After noticing a few too many story likes and waiting not so patiently for him to make a move, the conversations finally started. Before long, those conversations turned into long phone calls. Many of those early calls happened during Chris’s 5 a.m. wake-ups for work and Madison’s early morning drives to school. They took turns calling, and what started as catching up quickly became the best part of their days.

Their first official date took place in September 2023 and was very much on brand. Chris’s flight was delayed during a layover in New York, so he drove all the way to Boston just to see Madison. The date was great, but ultimately they decided the timing wasn’t quite right. Even so, neither of them really moved on. They stayed in touch here and there, and it was clear something was still there.

At one point, Madison reached out just to catch up. Two days later (of course), Chris replied with, “Are you done pretending we aren’t meant to be together?” Not only did it make her laugh, but it sealed it. From that moment on, there was no more pretending, no more bad timing, and no more distance.

Some of their favorite moments are the simplest ones. They love a good show, spending time together, and fully embracing “do nothing” days. Those days, spent just enjoying each other’s company, have become some of their best memories and the foundation of their relationship. Somewhere along the way, Chris also turned Madison into a surprisingly competitive poker player, though he may not agree that the student has officially become the master.

What began with crossed paths, long-distance calls, and imperfect timing has grown into something steady, joyful, and deeply meaningful. Chris and Madison are so excited to celebrate this next chapter together and feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by the love and support of the people who brought them here.