matthew
deborah
Deborah and Matt first met during orientation week at Cornell’s Johnson School of Business in the midst of the COVID pandemic. While Matt vividly remembers this first encounter, Deborah’s earliest core memory is of Matt generously helping her during a contract negotiation —a telling glimpse of the supportive partnership to come.
Their first year unfolded primarily through screens as remote learning became the norm. Despite the distance, something special was developing. As restrictions eased and in-person classes resumed, their connection deepened through everyday moments: Matt’s playful “where ya been?” as Deborah arrived fashionably late to class on her own timeline, notes passed between them during lectures, and contemplative walks across Cornell’s campus during breaks, where Matt waited patiently as Deborah spotted butterflies.
The pivot from friendship to romance came naturally when they were partnered in Decision Making class—how fitting that they would “align frames” in an academic setting before making the decision to begin a relationship together. While they approach life different frames of reference, Matt’s precision ‘lets measure then measure the ruler to make sure it’s right’ to Deborah’s creativity ‘if it’s worth doing, it’s worth overdoing’ - have created a perfect combination of balance that challenges each other to grow. Both recognized in each other a kindred spirit—someone who shared similar values and complementary perspectives on life.
Their proposal story reflects this blend of tradition and personal touch. On a crisp New York evening at the Metropolitan Museum of Art—a place where Matt says they had their first date —Matt asked Deborah to continue their journey together in front of family and hundreds of onlookers. Their commitment connects them to a future filled with shared meals, thoughtful conversations, beautiful spaces, and above all, a life built with love and care.
Join us on August 2nd, 2025, as we raise a glass to Deborah and Matt—two people creating something beautiful, authentic, and entirely their own.
