Clear Cut Couples: Brendan and Stephanie

Brendan and Stephanie met on Hinge! It all began on February 17, 2020. After they swiped right and sparked a riveting conversation, Steph and Brendan embarked on their first date at Trading Post in New York City. Smitten, dates quickly followed to Chelsea Piers, Schilling, Dudley’s, and a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to Dumbo’s Pebble Beach. Since then, they have been together for 4 years!

Almost as quickly as their relationship accelerated, news of a novel airborne virus progressed. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared a pandemic. Hysteria ensued along with toilet paper shortages and economic dysfunction. Away from their families, friends, and employers, Steph and Brendan locked down together in lower Manhattan, which was the epicenter of the virus. Fun dates in the Big Apple turned into home-cooked meals, Scrabble, crossword puzzles, and Tiger King.

On April 25, 2020, the young couple was dealt another early test, as Steph fractured her ankle in Central Park. After about four months and devices like Steph’s peg-leg, crutches, and a walking boot, she recovered, which would mark the beginning of a much better chapter.

By September 2020, with no signs of a return to office, Steph and Brendan booked a two-week trip to Colorado. Doing their jobs remotely by day and exploring by night and on the weekends, they became digital nomads and weekend warriors. Steph and Brendan eventually made leaps of faith and gave up their leases, instead making full use of AirBnBs, Turo car rentals, and an America the Beautiful National Park pass. Subsequent stops included Utah, California, Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, Texas, New York, New Jersey, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, and Colorado twice more. Their love for travel, the great outdoors, and each other grew and grew.

By May 2022, two weeks to stop the spread had become two years. Life on the road, while exhilarating, had taken its toll, and the world was returning to normal. They signed a lease in Brooklyn; this time for more than one month. That would foreshadow their future together if it was not already evident. They continued their vagabond ways while also enjoying city life again and extensive time with each other’s families.

On November 19, 2023, Brendan popped the question in Bodega Bay, California on a beautiful sunny day accompanied by Steph’s parents and brother. Steph instantly said yes and the rest is history.

Steph knew Brendan was going to propose sometime soon but didn't think it would happen on that day during their family "nature walk." She absolutely loved the ring and was so happy with Brendan's creation (she hadn't seen it beforehand!).

They will be getting married in Marin County, California this November 2024. Congrats you two! We are SO happy for you!