It all began on an online dating app while Crystal was visiting Arizona from Oregon.

Crystal was serious about finding “the one” — she even filled out the compatibility survey like it was a college entrance exam. Her wish list was long: a man who loved food and Mexican culture, could handle spicy food without crying, was independent, entrepreneurial, and ready to be a true power partner. Bonus points if he worked in construction (so he could one day build her dream home) and lived in a city like Phoenix where she could launch her business.

Rob? Well… Rob was just looking for an activity partner. He told Crystal he was perfectly happy living his single life. Crystal, of course, knew better. Let’s be honest — Rob didn’t need more activities, he needed the right woman.

At first, their connection was long-distance, with Crystal in Oregon and Rob in Arizona. They talked weekly or semi-weekly, and whenever Crystal flew back, Rob whisked her off to dinner and drinks. Each visit, the spark grew stronger.

Their first official date came during Covid, when restaurants were closed. Rob invited Crystal over and cooked dinner. He proudly showed off his kitchen skills — not realizing Crystal could match him move for move. She played it cool and let him have the spotlight on those first few dates (because nothing says romance like letting a man think he’s the chef of the year).

Over time, it became clear: Rob checked all the boxes Crystal had prayed for… and then some. He wasn’t just a man in construction — he already had the dream home. He wasn’t just a foodie — he could take the heat (literally, the spicy kind). And while he swore he was happy single, he quickly learned that life is much sweeter with Crystal in it.

Together, they discovered shared passions for business, Mexican culture, cooking, their restaurant and hospitality roots, traveling, and family. Their relationship even comes with a flavorful twist: the blending of Italian and Mexican cultures — pasta meets salsa, and it works perfectly.

After years of courting across two states, Rob finally admitted that maybe, just maybe, Crystal had been right all along. On December 16, 2024, he proposed. And now, here you are, celebrating the next chapter of a love story filled with laughter, adventure, and just the right amount of spice.