I Do!: David Masseria and Melissa Whalen, of Hicksville

At age 28, Melissa Whalen had just ended a long relationship and wasn't looking to start a new one. But in summer 2020, fate had other plans.

A mutual friend decided to play matchmaker, inviting Whalen, of West Hempstead, on a boat ride with his buddy David Masseria, of Holtsville. The “love boat" voyage was a success, ending in an exchange of phone numbers. The pair went on their first date soon after.

“I was single for a while, dating and meeting people, but nothing that really stuck," Masseria said. “When I met Melissa, her energy and the chemistry we had the first day we met made me realize she was the one."

After two months Whalen introduced Masseria to her parents, and Masseria and her dad hit it off as both had been members of the New York City Police Department.

“My father, who had seen guys come and go, told David that he hoped to see him again sometime," Whalen said. “David quickly responded, ‘Don’t worry — you’ll see me again.' "

Masseria and Whalen dated a little over three years, and were engaged in Nov. 3, 2023.

“David arranged to rent a plane and have a good friend, who is also an Air National Guard pilot, fly us over Manhattan at night so David could propose above the skyline. but under the stars," said Whalen said. “As we approached the city, David developed airsickness midway through. But he was determined to pop the question. It was an easy Yes and after we landed, he had a special dinner planned with our friends and family."

Masseria, 34, a police officer, and Whalen, 33, a surgical coordinator, had two wedding celebrations. For their religious service, they were married in front of immediate family on Aug. 3 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in West Hempstead and celebrated at King Umberto in Elmont.

The main reception was held Sept. 28 at Larkfield in East Northport.

“It rained all day, so the garden wedding ceremony was moved indoors," Whalen said. “But nothing could dampen our spirits."

Nominate a couple who has gotten married in the past 12 months. Email your love story, in 250 words or less, to lilife@newsday.com, subject line I Do!