We're getting married!

We met in June 2022 at a work conference — Adrian, as an active-duty Marine Corps officer (in uniform), and Alli, a Department of Defense civilian (sadly, no fun accessories). We didn’t talk much that week, mostly because Adrian understandably mistook Alli’s panicked glare for disinterest and Alli had no idea what to do with herself except ignore him, but a few exchanges lingered with us. Weeks later, Adrian won Alli over in a chance hallway encounter by remembering her name (yes, this truly impressed me), and the smile and greeting led to a first date that never truly ended! We quickly discovered shared humor, interests, and a love for life’s adventures. We are proud parents to our crazy, cuddly kitten Roja - aka Rojita, Chicken Nug, Nuggy, or Sweetie Pie - who keeps life interesting and gives plenty of cuddles. Together, we cherish life’s little moments and make everyday routines enjoyable, despite our persistent lack of routine. We bring out the best in one another, challenging and supporting each other in equal measure - aka, we’re equally stubborn and both right 100% of the time ;)

Adrian + Alli = A2. No, not A-Squared, A-Two! This has been our shared nickname since we started dating, although we may have to consider some changes soon since we'll both be AS... AS2 doesn't have the same ring to it though.

In November 2024, with a challenging year of separation ahead due to military orders, Adrian planned a getaway to the Omni Homestead in the Virginia mountains to celebrate his birthday (or so Alli thought) and to share one last weekend together before parting. The weekend was filled with thoughtful touches: a spa day, horse stables, great food, and plenty of champagne. Alli was oblivious and in her happy place, and Adrian was stressed out of his mind. We had very different experiences of our "relaxing" spa day! The weekend culminated in a romantic, but personality-filled proposal. Adrian had carefully planned every detail, down to which knee he chose to ensure he could present the ring seamlessly. Alli, on the other hand, was still oblivious. She even saw the photographer, but wrote it off after Adrian quickly assured her it was probably just a groundskeeper. Despite only being November, it was snowing as Adrian proposed with an extremely heartfelt speech that he may or may not be able to remember any of. Alli, caught completely off guard despite hoping for the moment, reacted instinctively. In her rush to say “yes” to the rest of their lives together (which came out as "REALLY!!?!!"), she threw both hands at Adrian — winter gloves still on!! Adrian, with an immense relief and joy, got to officially call Alli his fiance, and enjoy the best birthday gift he could ask for. While he waits to call Alli his wife, he prays that she doesn't expect a ring on the other hand she stuck out...

In the fall of 2025, A2 was reunited in Miami, Florida. The tropical scenery, latin cuisine, excessive sun, and endless adventures kept the two busy as ever with Adrian planning activities for every waking moment, including morning cafecitos y croquettas, and Alli photosynthesizing enjoying the sun. We knew it wasn't a forever city, but it was a great adventure. Now, A2 are back in Alexandria, VA, spending their time wedding planning, seeing friends, and working toward their next chapter of life!