We met at a swim meet during our sophomore year of high school, but at the time, we didn’t think much of it. Fast forward to the summer before senior year, when Sawyer happened to stop by Grace’s house in Goleta for a “kickback” with friends. There was an instant connection, and after a few flirty texts, we quickly bonded over our love of water polo, the outdoors, dogs, and, most importantly, family. We went on our first date that fall, and on New Year’s Eve in 2016, Sawyer officially asked Grace to be his girlfriend. From transferring to the University of Southern California together, to spending time apart here and there, to practically living together during the pandemic at Lavender Oak Vineyard; we grew up alongside one another and continued to choose each other through every chapter. Eventually, we decided to fully commit to building a life together with our three animals — Maya, Luka, and Benny — and made the move to Sun Valley. After four incredible years in Idaho filled with community, adventure, and so much joy, Sawyer took Grace backcountry skiing in the Sawtooth Mountains. At the top, on a sunny day surrounded by 360-degree views and a secret bottle of champagne, Sawyer got down on one knee and proposed. He definitely made her work for it on the hike up, and she happily said yes on our nine-year anniversary, New Year’s Eve 2025. We quickly skied down and drove home where family and friends were eagerly waiting to celebrate! We could not be more excited to celebrate our love with our family and friends at Grace’s family home and vineyard, somewhere that holds such a special place in our hearts. We love our hometown of Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley, and we cannot wait for everyone to experience some of our favorite places and celebrate alongside us as we begin this next chapter together!