Newly engaged: Alex and Cooper

Alex (24) and Cooper (21) met at the gym in Mount Pleasant, where Alex was working the front desk. Alex grew up in The Bahamas and moved to Mount Pleasant at 10; Cooper grew up in an Air Force family that moved often. Alex is a stay-at-home mom, and Cooper works in the fitness industry. Together for just over two years, they got engaged on 5/22/26 at Riverfront Park.

Current location:

Mount Pleasant, SC.

How did you two meet?

We met at the gym. I was working the front desk, and Cooper came in so often I could spot him from across the room. He’d already told his family and friends he wanted to ask me out, so he scrolled through the gym’s Instagram followers until he found mine and sent a message with the cutest, funniest cat meme – I couldn’t say no.

What did you do on your first date?

We went to Coconut Joe’s on Isle of Palms for dinner. He picked me up, and once dinner was over, neither of us wanted it to end – so we drove around IOP and Sullivan’s and talked for another hour. After he dropped me off, we sat in the parking lot talking for another hour.

Tell us about the proposal.

It was our two-year anniversary, and we went to Momo’s – where he asked me to be his girlfriend, and where we go for every anniversary. I was suspicious he might propose, but I was honestly still so surprised. We went to walk around Riverfront Park after dinner and came up to a blanket with flowers, candles, and framed photos of us. Then he got on one knee and proposed. All of a sudden our photographer and friends popped out to congratulate us. It was so special.

What’s a contender for your first dance song?

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Do you believe in love at first sight?

We wouldn’t say it was love at first sight, but by the end of our first date we both knew we’d found our person.

What’s your definition of love?

Ours are a little different. I feel most loved when I feel seen – when he notices I’m struggling and does things to help without my asking. He feels most loved when I get excited about his accomplishments and make him feel supported in his decisions.

What are your thoughts on dating nowadays?

I think dating is complicated now. Meeting naturally, in person, is better – but dating apps also open you up to a bigger pool of possibilities. There are pros and cons to both. I do think people should be more open to being social and meeting in person.

What advice would you give people searching for their life partner?

Stay open. Be open to complimenting a stranger with no expectations, and see where it goes.

On paper, would you say you’re a compatible couple?

I’d say so. We aren’t the same person, but we have a lot of the same opinions and interests – we’re both very active, social, and focused on building our finances.

What are your future plans?

We already have a house and a child… kind of did things backwards from what society tells us to do. Cooper is joining the Army, so we’ll be moving to another state in about 18 months. It’s a big change, and we’re excited about it.

Who’s the better cook?

Cooper, all around. I’m breakfast-obsessed, so I make good pancakes, hash brown bowls, eggs, and grits. He’s much better at steak, burgers, and vegetables.

Who’s more organized?

Me, for sure. I’m not crazy about cleaning, but I need a clean space to function – and since I’m home more, I do most of it anyway. Cooper could live in chaos and be completely fine.

What are some of your favorite date spots around town?

MOMO, Sunsets, Dog and Duck, LoLA, and Home Team.

Photographer: Meraki Photo by Jaime.