Clear Cut Couples: Natt and James
Natt and James met in high school! They were part of the same friend group. They went to prom together as best friends. Through college they stayed causally connected, only really seeing each other when they were home for summer break. One summer, one of Natt’s college friends was visiting and they grabbed lunch with friends and James happened to be there. After lunch her friend turned to her and said “that boy is in love with you.” After college, they ended up working in office buildings across the street from each other, which led to grabbing lunch often. Eventually, those lunches turned into dinners and drinks, and before they knew it, they were dating. Six years later, after sharing a dog and moving apartments a few times, they are now engaged!
Their first date was at Turtle and the Wolf in Montclair, New Jersey. It was one of those spontaneous decisions, marked with playful banter as sheI jokingly suggested to James that they should clarify in the note section that it wasn't a “real date.” Their shared laughter echoed their ongoing joke of being “fake boyfriend and girlfriend.” As they sat across from each other, immersed in the cozy ambiance of the restaurant, Natt couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly enjoyable it was to be with her best friend. In that moment, amidst the clinking of glasses and the aroma of delicious food, she realized that love had quietly tiptoed in, disguised as friendship.
They've been together going on six years as of August 18, 2024! And they have shared countless memories over the years. A few of Natt’s favorite memories include their yearly trips to Maine, savoring good food and gorgeous landscape. Another being the fulfilling journey of fostering and raising a rescue dog. They’ve built a life rich in shared experiences. But it's the simple pleasure of lounging on the couch, binge-watching their favorite shows like The Mindy Project, New Girl, and Reba, that reminds Natt of the comfort and happiness found in their everyday moments together.
James proposed in Charleston, South Carolina at White Point Garden. They are planning a move down south so they went to visit neighborhoods and see areas to consider. After a full day with the realtor, they got ready for dinner and went for a walk. He took her down to the waterfront and tried his best to stall so that the photographer could get there in time. When the time was just right he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.
Natt had an idea it was happening because James was so nervous. That said, as soon as he got down on one knee Natt’s heart was beating out of her chest and she couldn't help but cry. When she saw the ring she gasped… it was exactly what she wanted.
As for their wedding, they don't really know yet! They toss around the idea of eloping in Italy or having a big wedding with family at home. Congrats you two! We are SO happy for you!
Photos by: @canadunlapphotography