JT & MJ – A Love Meant to Be
Love has a funny way of finding you right where you are…sometimes even at work. For JT and MJ, what started as friendly banter among aisles and frames at Hobby Lobby in Plattsburgh turned into a love story full of laughter, patience, and deep devotion.
How It All Began
Back in 2017, JT and MJ both joined the team helping to open the new Hobby Lobby store. At first, it was all business! MJ worked in the office as a bookkeeper and office manager, and JT was part of the frame shop and warehouse crew. At the time, MJ was in another relationship, but JT quietly became her steady friend and supporter.
When life changed and MJ’s relationship ended, JT was there kind, understanding, and patient. “He gave me space but also helped wherever I needed him,” MJ recalls. “He truly helped me move past and realize that I deserved better. He never pushed, and we became friends first.”
After a year of friendship and growing connection, JT finally worked up the courage to ask MJ out. Their first date was a perfect mix of fun and sweet moments, an escape room with friends, followed by dinner for just the two of them. “I went for the first kiss that night,” JT laughs. “And I learned a lot about food allergies that night too!”
Falling in Love
It didn’t take long for both of them to realize that what they had was special. For JT, the defining moment came around year three. “We had started living together about a year into our relationship,” he shares. “She showed me what love is supposed to be.”
For MJ, the feeling was there all along. “I’ve known he was the one for most of our relationship. You know they’re the one when you can be fully yourself and not fear being judged when they’re there for your worst days and still smile at you like you’re the best part of their world.”
The Proposal
JT knew he wanted to make the proposal as magical as possible and nothing says magic like Christmas lights in the snow. “I took MJ to The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY,” JT remembers. “It was right after Christmas, so the Wild Lights were glowing all around us. Her best friend Haylee came along disguised to take photos.”
MJ had no idea what was coming. After a few funny failed attempts around Christmas and New Year’s (thanks to a perfectly timed movie quote and some holiday chaos), JT finally got his moment. “We got to the vine sculptures, and I thought it was a beautiful spot,” he says. “I was so nervous not that she’d say no, but because I’m not the best with words.”
With the lights twinkling around them and Haylee secretly snapping photos, JT dropped to one knee. “I remember her smile when I asked, ‘Will you marry me?’” he says.
MJ laughs remembering it now. “He was so fidgety, but it was perfect. The lights, the snow, the whole atmosphere, it’s a moment I’ll cherish forever.”
Their Vibe
Relaxed, loving, and full of humor that’s JT and MJ in a nutshell. They love exploring new places, cozy movie nights, and quiet dinners out together. Their theme song? “All the Small Things” by Blink-182 for JT, and “Stuck Like Glue” by Sugarland for MJ…
both perfectly capturing their fun and steadfast bond.
They even have their own inside jokes, like the time MJ accidentally shut her thumb in a safe. JT drew a thumbs-up on a sticky note and gave it to her “whilst in the midst of courting her.” It’s little moments like that that make their love story uniquely theirs.
The Engagement Photos
The couple chose Liberty Ridge for their engagement photos, a place as bright and beautiful as their connection. “Our wedding flower is the sunflower,” MJ shares. “Liberty Ridge’s sunflower and zinnia fields were the perfect backdrop, colorful, warm, and full of life.”
Messages from the Heart
From JT:
“I want to thank my family and friends for always being there, especially on the bad days. And to my new family… Thank you for accepting me, showing me love, and raising the beautiful soul I get to marry.
To my future wife, you’re the best pain in the butt I could ever ask for. We’ve made it through thick and thin. I know I can be a lot at times, but thank you for always sticking by me and loving me for who I am. I love you to infinity and beyond.”
From MJ:
“To my love, you’ve always been there for me, even before we were together. Through ups and downs, long workdays, and challenges, you’ve shown me unwavering support. I can be stubborn, but your love gives me strength. I look forward to spending the good, the bad, and the ugly with you for the rest of our lives.”
To Family & Friends:
“To all our friends and family who took the time out of their busy lives to celebrate with us! We appreciate and love you more than words can describe. Knowing that you wanted to be here for us on our special day means the world. These memories will be cherished forever.”
JT & MJ — proof that the best love stories begin with friendship, laughter, and a whole lot of patience.
