We first connected on Tinder and chatted for about a week (and vetted each other through mutual friends) before going on our first date. We met at the California Blue Line station on a rainy Wednesday and headed to Boiler Room. After Amanda immediately ordered the PB&J—a menu classic featuring a piece of pizza, a 16oz PBR, and a shot of Jameson—Will was a little surprised but definitely interested. He was supposed to meet up with his friends after a drink or two, but he decided to skip it and get to know Amanda a little more. We continued the night by bar hopping through Logan Square, first to the Heavy Feather speakeasy for 70s cocktails and good conversation, and then to The Owl for late night tequila shots and explanations of "water features." It was a date unlike either of us had ever had, and all we could think about the next day was each other.

Will planned a weekend trip to the mountains for him, Amanda, and our dog Randy in May of 2021. The fact that Will planned the whole thing was a dead giveaway for Amanda—this was it! We stayed at a cozy cabin just outside of Aspen and loved exploring the surrounding areas, Randy especially. On our second day, we drove into Aspen for a hike up Smuggler's Peak where you'll find a lookout with a panoramic view of the picturesque ski town and the surrounding mountains. Once we reached the top of the mountain, we were the only ones at the peak and took in the view for a couple minutes. Will had brought our binoculars, so when he handed them to Amanda to take a look around, he took the opportunity to retrieve the ring box (from his sock)! While Amanda was looking through the binoculars, she suddenly felt Will kiss her neck and say "I love you so much Amanda." At this point Amanda put down the binoculars and turned around to see Will down on one knee. He then said, "I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?" Amanda's response was "Shut up! Shut up. Of course!" We hugged and kissed and celebrated with Randy on top of the mountain and then headed back down to call our friends and families and tell them the good news. We spent the rest of the weekend celebrating in the beautiful mountains of our new home state.

We can't wait to celebrate with all of you this summer!