'From the moment I swiped right on Ryan's Tinder profile in 2015, I had a good feeling. Seeing his face, I knew instantly he was The One.
We went on a walk at Portchester Castle in Hampshire for our first date and were chatting away for so long that we walked round the castle twice. We clicked instantly and had so much in common. He was so sweet and funny - and loved a bargain just like me.
I'd always been a thrifty person, ever since I was a little girl. My parents worked and we never struggled financially growing up, but I'd always loved saving money and had a great eye for hunting down bargains. I'd spend my weekends trawling through charity shops to hunt down hidden gems.
My proudest achievement was definitely a pair of Dr Martens boots that I found in a charity shop for a tenner. They're usually around £100. And they were my size-result!
Ryan loved seeing what I'd found after a rummage at the second hand shop and even joined me some weekends to pick up some bargains for himself. It was obvious we were a match made in heaven.
After six happy years together, we found out we were expecting our first child. We were so excited to become parents.
Ryan was helping me prepare for my driving test when he got down on one knee and popped the question.
"Sammie, I love you so much. Will you marry me?" he asked, looking nervous.
"Of course!" I said as I flung my arms around him, nearly knocking him to the floor.
I'd never been too fussed about getting married - but I love Ryan so much and was so excited to be his wife. It felt special with a baby on the way, symbolising our new start as a family of three.
Most little girls dream of a big white wedding, but that had never been my goal. I just wanted to be legally recognised as a family and I knew I didn't need anything extravagant for it to be the most special day.
This story is from the August 14, 2023 edition of New UK.
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This story is from the August 14, 2023 edition of New UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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