Occupation 

Construction/pending admission to the Sheriff's Department.

Education

Some College

Hobby

Movies, trying new restaurants & playing with our dogs and nephews 

Favorite Food

Mexican food (especially beef fajita tacos and beans) & sharp cheddar cheese

Favorite Music

‘80s hits & Texas country 

Favorite Movie

Batman vs. Superman 

Favorite Place to Travel

Salem, MA 

Occupation 

Family Nurse Practitioner

Education

Master's Degree

Hobby

Reading, baking, relaxing outside, traveling & spending time with family and friends

Favorite Food

Anything Italian

Favorite Music

Country & ‘80s and ‘90s hits!

Favorite Movie

Christmas Vacation & Father of the Bride

Favorite Place to Travel

Disney

Our Story

Matt and I met in 2018 through online dating, both telling our friends it was “one last try.” After just a day of talking, we met in person, and that first night, I was struck by Matt’s honesty and openness. We spent hours talking and laughing, and by the end of the night, we knew something special had begun.

Though it wasn’t how we imagined meeting our future spouse, from the start, we shared the same dreams of marriage and family. Over the next two years, we went on adventures together. I introduced Matt to my favorite outdoor spots and wineries, and he shared his love of movies. We quickly met each other’s families and knew we had found the one.

In March 2020, Matt proposed at a lakeside restaurant, and in October 2021, we were married at a beautiful outdoor venue. Surrounded by 75 of our closest friends and family, we exchanged vows in a restored barn nestled among live oaks. It was truly the most magical night of our lives.

Our Home

We live in a spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in a beautiful neighborhood. We have a great fenced-in yard where we enjoy entertaining friends and family, and where the dogs are free to run and play. It is in a safe, family-friendly neighborhood where kids are always playing outside, riding bikes, and looking out for one another. We have a cozy family room and a loft where we love to relax and spend time together. The kitchen is the heart of the home- it is where we cook dinners, bake cookies, and share stories around the table. We have a bright, cheerful nursery ready to be filled with books, snuggles, and endless sweet memories. More than anything, our home is a place where a child will always feel safe, loved, and celebrated.

We live in a suburban area nestled quietly between two large Texas cities. It makes it such a desirable location for those wanting suburban life with urban conveniences. Our community is known for its parks and outdoor activities for both adults and children. It is the kind of community where people wave hello on walks, kids play outside, and families gather for seasonal festivals and weekend fun. The community is full of culture and history. We love walking around downtown, attending different festivals, trying new restaurants, and enjoying the beautiful lakes and rivers. We cannot wait to share these adventures with our little one.

My twin brother and I were adopted by our grandparents when we were kids, and I’ve always called them “Mom and Dad.” They gave us a foundation built on love, support, and tradition. From them, I learned resilience and independence, and I’ll always be grateful for the life they created for us.

Our home was filled with warmth, especially during the holidays, and I was lucky to grow up close to my extended family, including my great-grandparents. My parents have been married for 39 years and are now retired. They enjoy quiet days at home, watching movies, and spending time with loved ones. My dad’s love for hunting and fishing has always been a big part of who he is, and I can already picture him sharing those experiences with our child. My mom has a zest for life and enjoys craft shows and community events.

They are devoted grandparents to five grandkids and cannot wait to welcome another into the family. My twin brother lives nearby, and we spend a lot of time together reminiscing and making new memories. I know he’s excited to be the fun uncle to our future child.

Lauren's Family

I was raised in a loving, supportive home with my parents and younger sister, where our days were always filled with laughter, love, and encouragement. I also grew up surrounded by my grandparents and nine cousins, who played a big role in shaping who I am today. Family gatherings were always joyful, and those close connections have remained strong into adulthood.

My sister and I share a bond I treasure. She is married with two children, and being “LaLa” to my nephews, Jay and Nash, is one of my greatest joys. Hearing them yell my name when I walk through the door melts my heart every time.

I feel fortunate to have grown up in such a close-knit family and look forward to sharing that same love and sense of belonging with our child. My parents, lovingly known as GiGi and Poppy, are amazing grandparents who are eager to welcome another little one. My dad, now retired, lights up whenever he hears “Poppy, come play!” and loves building forts and watching movies with the grandkids. My mom, a nurse, has a natural gift for making everyone feel cared for and adored. She especially loves hosting sleepovers that always include ice cream or a special treat. Together, we are ready to surround this child with endless love, laughter, and support.

Matthew & Lauren - A Look Into Our Life

Best Furry Friends

Marvel was just a year old when I met her, and since Matt is such a big movie fan, her name could not have been more perfect. He had rescued her as a puppy, and by the time I came along, they were already two peas in a pod. Luckily, Marvel quickly warmed up to me, and we became close. She is full of energy and joy and loves trips to the dog park, chasing squirrels, and running around the yard.

A few years later, we decided Marvel needed a friend. One of Matt’s friends had golden retriever puppies, and when we saw the little red golden, we knew he was meant for us. We named him Olly after Olly Murs, a singer whose song was playing during a special moment early in our relationship.

Marvel and Olly are now the best of friends. They are sweet, playful, and love everyone. We know they will be loving and protective companions for the baby.

Forever Friends

We are so blessed to have the most amazing friends and support system. Everyone in our circle is thrilled to welcome a new baby, and most already have kids who will be wonderful role models. From the very beginning, our friends have celebrated each step with us, offering encouragement, helping us prepare, and cheering us on with love.

We enjoy spending time together in simple and meaningful ways—meeting for dinner, trying a new restaurant, enjoying the outdoors, or just relaxing at each other’s homes. Some of our favorite moments are those casual evenings filled with laughter and conversation around a table or on the porch.

We know this child will not only be surrounded by our love but also by an incredible community ready to embrace and support them every step of the way.

Adventure Time

Since Lauren is from Pennsylvania, we love visiting the Northeast to spend time with family and friends. Matt was amazed on his first trip from Texas—he had never experienced snowy winters, mountain views, or crisp fall air. Fall in the Northeast is especially beautiful, with colorful leaves, cider, and small-town festivals that make it the perfect season to slow down and enjoy family.

Another favorite destination is Massachusetts, especially Salem, Rockport, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. These coastal towns are full of history and charm. We loved exploring Salem’s cobblestone streets, learning about its past, and enjoying the local food, art, and culture.

We also love beach trips. The boardwalk, ocean breeze, and sunsets are some of our favorite ways to relax and spend time together. Evenings walking along the boardwalk with ice cream and games are simple joys we truly treasure as a family.

Holiday Tradition

Christmas has always been our favorite time of year. It is a season filled with meaning, tradition, and deep family togetherness. We love decorating the tree with music playing, baking sweet treats, and blending the traditions we each grew up with. Our home is filled with warmth, twinkling lights, and the smell of pastries. We enjoy sharing meals that reflect our heritage, watching holiday movies, attending gatherings, and playing games together.

One of the most meaningful parts of the season is going to church - whether it’s a Christmas Eve candlelight service or morning mass, it keeps us grounded in gratitude, faith, and the joy of giving. More than anything, Christmas is about connection, and we can’t wait to share that with a child.