Tara & Michael in Powell, OH

Tara and Michael had both been on a few unsuccessful dates through an online dating website -- before they happened upon each other’s profiles. After a few weeks of emails, they decided to meet in person. After talking for hours, they got nervous and said an awkward good-bye that left them worried that the relationship wouldn’t continue. Fortunately, Mike worked up the courage to call Tara the next day, sparking an almost yearlong courtship. The Bride Tara Hoefs, 31, an elementary teacher The Groom Michael McGaugh, 32, a high school teacher The Date July 11 The day before their one-year anniversary together, Mike brought Tara a dozen roses, took her on a trip to the scene of their first date, and then took her home where he proposed with a photo album full of his favorite memories that they had shared. To honor the state where they had both lived before moving to Virginia, the two planned a cheerful yellow destination wedding at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio.