Two things Dartagnan and Ashley both love: a good party and an excuse to dress up. They met at one such occasion on June 15th, 2013. It was a themed party in the Lower East Side, not far from where Dartagnan grew up. This Texas gal and New York guy met to the sounds of sitar music on the rooftop patio. He asked her friend to watch his chair and then promptly disappeared for twenty minutes. By the time he returned, Ashley was left literally holding the bag. He offered her an apology beer. It would be the first of many themed events, not to mention rooftop bars and dance parties. The rest is history.

The other thing that Dartagnan and Ashley have in common is their shared love of adventures. From food to travel to motorcycle rides to theme events, Ashley and Dart collect friends and memories along the way. They love to host a good dinner party, and if you haven't had one of chef Dart's meals you are missing out. They enjoy their fair share of fashion, and with a name like Dartagnan who is surprised. Two years ago they relocated from New York to Philadelphia, becoming home owners and starting a new set of adventures. They still enjoy a good pop-up dinner party, outdoor movie, or random weeknight excuse to organize friends. This is just one such occasion.

Dartagnan is not one for a quiet event. Like his bride-to-be, he enjoys a good show and some dramatic flair. On New Year's Eve 2019, after Ashley had changed her mind about festivities multiple times, they arrived to see fireworks at Morgan's Pier under the Ben Franklin Bridge. Dartagnan led the group to a place where they would have a good view, and surprised Ashley (who was far too sober at this point) when he got down on one knee. There were fireworks and cheers from the audience watching, and the group promptly addressed that sobriety problem with several rounds of champagne. They began the year 2020 surrounded by friends, dancing until the wee small hours, excited for their next adventure.

Unfortunately, 2020 had other plans for our recently-engaged couple. With the bride's father's health and a global pandemic, our beloved bride and groom had to give up their plans for a big celebration this year. With the support of their wonderful family, they will host a small wedding at one of their favorite places: the wine country residence of Greg and Caryl Putnam. Given their affinity for big parties and themed events, you can bet that they will be hosting another celebration in 2021. While this year has been a hard one for so many, we hope you will join the couple in remembering that not everything in 2020 is cancelled: love, family, and joy will persevere.