We're Getting Married!

We met at Boston University in 2010. While the specific details of how we first met continue to be debated, we can say with a certain amount of confidence that we were likely toasting (many) a red solo cup in the Sigma Chi basement. Following years of close friendship, we made it official just prior to Katharina's graduation in May 2013 after Andrew asked, "so, how am I going to be introduced to your parents?" After graduation, we both got jobs and moved to New York City. In 2017, we made the decision to move in together and so started the annual Oktoberfest parties coupled with noise complaints from neighbors. Through the years we have loved visiting (almost) every rooftop bar in Manhattan, traveling abroad, and exploring each other's home states (North Carolina for Katharina and a mix of Texas & California for Andrew). Andrew's final phase of initiation into the Funder family was 6+ months of living with the future in-laws during quarantine. If that isn't a true test of our relationship, then we're not sure what is.

On our annual trip that corresponds with Andrew's birthday, we took a couple of days off and ventured to Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod. Following a beautiful day spent on the beach featuring piña coladas (because, of course) and seal watching, Andrew suddenly told Katharina that his coworker had been able to secure a table at a "beach front restaurant" for his birthday dinner. Katharina, who was secretly already suspicious, suddenly was asking lots of questions which, looking back, should have been a tip off to Andrew that his big surprise might have been anticipated. Who would have thought that after eight years Katharina would have seen this coming? After getting ready, Andrew surprised Katharina with what he thought would be a beautiful wooden boat. However, that was substituted for a lobster boat at the last minute to take us out to North Beach Island (classic pre-proposal mechanical issues that spring up 45 minutes prior to the big moment). With just the two of us alone on the island, Andrew proposed, champagne was popped, and we danced to our favorite song. Following a cruise along the coast, we arrived back at the hotel where a beach cabana with rose petals was waiting for us along with more champagne and charcuterie. To top it all off, our families had put together a video congratulating us from all over the world which brought us both to tears. September 25th was truly such a bright spot in a rather difficult year. We are so thankful to everyone who has made us feel so loved and celebrated from afar!

The Wörthersee has been an important place to the Funder family for the better part of 60 years. Katharina's father spent his summers here growing up and this tradition has stayed within the family. With both of Katharina's parents being from the region and her extended family living in Austria, Katharina spent every summer in Austria since she was little. Fast forward to 2013, Andrew visited Austria for the first time and immediately fell in love with the culture, landscape, and, most importantly, Wiener Schnitzel. From the jump, the Wörthersee quickly became an extremely special place with countless memories for us, and we can't wait to share it with you. From the sparkling turquoise waters to the delicious food and endless spritzes at the lakeside restaurants, it's easy to see why many call it the most beautiful lake in Austria.  We are so excited to celebrate with you this year! We do want to note that we recognize that this is a far distance to travel for many of our guests. While you definitely would be missed, we completely understand if you're unable to make it.