Rebecca and Jared’s story began during one magical summer at an amusement park called Sluggers & Putters. Rebecca joined the team for a summer job and met Jared—whose family owns the park. Their connection blossomed quickly, starting in 2019 as Jared was preparing to leave his hometown to begin his Army service.

Soon life brought the couple to Virginia, where Jared was stationed at Fort Eustis and Rebecca began her marketing career in Williamsburg. They loved every moment of exploring Virginia, whether it was Jared dragging Rebecca to Civil War battlefields and historical sites, soaking up the sun at the beaches of the Atlantic coast, or simply enjoying the warm Southern weather while floating on the James River. Virginia became their first shared adventure together, but they always knew there were more adventures ahead.

In 2023, their relationship endured long distance as Rebecca returned home to Ohio while Jared was deployed to the Philippines and Australia. Despite the 12-hour time difference, they stayed connected, counting down the days until they would reunite.

As a gift for waiting so long, Jared promised Rebecca a vacation. The two underwent a road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Switzerland, and Italy. Both Rebecca and Jared were able to retrace family lineage on this trip. With Rebecca seeing Alsace France and Jared visiting family stores in Catanzaro, Italy the two felt connected to each other’s heritage. The middle of the trip was marked with an extended stay in Sicily. With Jared’s mediocre Italian, the two navigated the small towns side by side, enjoying every minute of their time together.

One of the most unforgettable moments of their story happened on January 1, 2024, in Catania, under the shadow of Mount Etna, and with the waves of the Mediterranean gently crashing behind them, Jared asked Rebecca the easiest question she’d ever answered. Finishing the trip with memorable cuisine in Naples, romantic views in Positano, and learning to make Roma Pizza, the two returned to their little paradise on the canal.

Back home, Rebecca and Jared have embraced life in Canal Fulton. They can often be found on the towpath or at Cherry Street Creamery with their puppy, Bella Ciao.

As they prepare for the big day, Rebecca and Jared are so grateful to have you join them for this celebration of love, laughter, and the journey that brought them here! Cleveland truly rocks, and they are excited for you to see its culture and charm. To visiting guests—not many places in the world can you drive within 1 hour to the world’s best roller coasters, surf on a freshwater lake, Amish country, catch a Broadway show, or check out the birthplace of football. Thank you for being part of this special story and we can’t wait to share this special moment with all of you!

P.S. Be ready to bust a move on the dancefloor and freshen up on your ABBA sing-alongs!

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