About Us
How did you guys meet?
The story of Zach and Mallory’s relationship does not start with a chance encounter or love at first sight. Instead, this tale begins in the conniving mind of their mutual friend, Shelby Wright. It is within the dark corners of Shelby’s mind that the idea of setting up a “chance” meeting between the two was born and grew into what would become a life changing moment for both Zach and Mallory. Shelby arranged for the two to work in the same booth at the Athens Stadion Classic Golf Tournament. However, there were two Mallorys working that day. Naturally, Zach began his day working with the “wrong” Mallory, but was quickly commandeered by the “right” one. The remainder of their day was spent exchanging sarcastic comments, arranging and re-arranging koozies and general juvenile interactions. No numbers were exchanged or Facebook friend requests sent.
Where was your first date?
At this juncture, the good money was on this encounter ending in a fizzle instead of a spark. However, Shelby, determined to press onward in her matchmaking foray, insisted that Mallory reach out to Zach. “No, really! You should totally talk to him. He liked you!” Subsequently, texts were sent, Facebook posts were made and, eventually, a lunch meeting was arranged. (Note the term meeting. This was not a date.) The two met in Woodstock at a now-defunct diner called the “Right Wing Tavern” – a conservative-themed restaurant. Foreshadowing, anyone? Zach and Mallory enjoyed each other’s company and the food and parted ways promptly at 1pm, because Mallory had a hair appointment to get to at 1:30.
Okay, where was your first REAL date?
Over the next few weeks, Zach was busy interviewing for his first job out of college and was unable to take time from his busy schedule to make the grueling trip to Athens. Finally, annoyed with the promising communication but utter lack of commitment, Mallory demanded that Zach drive to Athens and take her on a real date (because we all know lunch doesn’t count). Somewhat impressed and with his pride on the line, Zach decided that a real date was indeed in order. Thus the two youngsters dined on tapas at Casa Mia, snacked on dessert at Square One and sipped cocktails at the Winery – a classy evening done in true Athenian fashion. Over the following weeks, the two would nurture a budding romance via text message, Facebook and Zach’s increasingly frequent trips to Athens. Finally, on July 4th, Zach asked Mallory to officially become his girlfriend.
How did you make it to DC?
As luck would have it, two short months later, Zach was given the chance to work for Congressman Phil Gingrey in Washington, DC. Though this was admittedly a wonderful and life-changing opportunity, both Zach and Mallory knew they had something special in each other. They agreed to give the long distance relationship a shot, even though Mallory would not graduate until the following May, nine months later. This was a difficult, but rewarding time in the relationship. However, the two stayed together – most likely out of sheer stubbornness. After her graduation on Friday, May 13th, 2011 (yes, Friday the 13th), Mallory and Zach drove to Washington, DC so that Mallory could begin an internship with Congressman Tom Price on May 16th.
Ok, so you're in DC - Now what?
While transitioning from long distance to seeing each other nearly every day was not without it’s issues, Zach and Mallory knew that the worst was behind them. For the next few months, the two worked hard to build their lives both individually and as a couple. Zach got promoted and Mallory found her first job, they found a group of UGA grads to watch the Dawgs’ epic ten game winning streak with and generally tried to experience the best that DC life has to offer. However, Zach was not without his own plans.
How did he propose?
On a chilly—nay freezing—morning in December, Zach, Mallory and a few close friends embarked on an icy hike up Old Rag Mountain. After hours of trudging up snowy paths and scrambling over ice-slicked rock, the weary group reached the summit and were greeted by a breathtaking panorama. Knowing his only chance for surprise was while Mallory was weak and disoriented, Zach pulled her to the side to take “pictures”. After fixing her hair and assuring her she looked beautiful, Zach dropped to one knee and proposed to a shocked and incredulous Mallory.
The rest, as they say, is history. Zach and Mallory (mostly Mallory) have begun planning the wedding and look forward to sharing their lives with one another. They also hope this ramble has not bored you.
Well played, Shelby…
What city do you live in?
In the great District of Columbia, of course!
Our Home Address:
118 3rd Street NE
Garden Unit
Washington, DC 20002
Our Shipping Address:
320 1st Street SE
Washington, DC 20003