Dennis + Shelby’s Love Story

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when two people just fit, Dennis and Shelby’s story might be your answer. These two met the modern way, on Hinge, where Dennis made the first move by sending Shelby a “Rose”. That small digital gesture turned into something real, fast. They hit it off, made plans for their first date… and the rest, as they say, is history.

From the very beginning, everything about being together just worked. Shelby said it best: “Everything about being with Dennis is fun and easy. My life is better with him in it”. On their first date, they got so caught up talking about anything and everything that they actually forgot to eat their dinners… that’s when you know you’ve found your person. Dennis clearly felt it too; after that night (which lasted until 1 a.m. on a Wednesday!), he deleted all his dating apps on the spot. “I knew it was my wife who had just left,” he said.

Fast forward to the proposal, one that could not have been more Shelby. Dennis planned a surprise at the Bronx Zoo, one of her favorite places, complete with a private tour and a “wild encounter.” Shelby thought they were just getting the chance to pet some ambassador animals, but Dennis had something even wilder in mind. Right there in the open-air aviary, surrounded by her favorite animals, he got down on one knee. “I didn’t even realize he was proposing until I saw him kneeling!” she laughed.

After saying “yes,” the celebrations began! A day spent enjoying the zoo, FaceTiming their families, and later celebrating with close friends. The following evening, both of their families came together for a special dinner to mark the start of this exciting new chapter.

When asked what they love most about each other, their answers were so heartfelt. Dennis shared that Shelby’s caring and selfless nature has taught him to slow down and truly appreciate life, and now he always makes sure to keep fresh flowers in their home as a sweet reminder. Shelby, on the other hand, says that Dennis’s sense of humor fills their days with laughter and joy, making even the simplest moments special.

Together, they’ve started a fun tradition; visiting every Major League Baseball stadium in the country! So far, they’ve checked off Citi Field, Fenway Park, Tropicana Field, and Loan Depot Park.

When it came time for their engagement session, Shelby found me (Nicole!) through Thumbtack. She shared her vision, and I suggested Brooksvale Park in Hamden, CT — a beautiful spot that perfectly matched the natural, relaxed vibe they were going for. They were both a little nervous about being in front of the camera, but you’d never know it from their photos. They trusted the process, followed direction beautifully, and their connection did the rest.

Their advice for other couples planning engagement photos or weddings? Trust your photographer! “Nicole carried herself so confidently and professionally, which made us feel confident too,” Shelby said. “After seeing her work on Instagram, we knew we were in great hands.”

As for wedding planning, Dennis and Shelby have been having a blast tackling the big things early, from booking vendors to exploring color palettes, so they can enjoy the process stress-free. They can’t wait to celebrate with their loved ones and, eventually, start a family together.

From a Hinge rose to a proposal among the birds, Dennis and Shelby’s love story is proof that when you find the right person, everything just clicks.