In 2019 Rachael and Aaron met on Bumble in Washington, DC, both swiping right, and from there the journey began. Aaron was drawn to Rachael’s wonderful smile in her profile picture, which was a recent addition thanks to the timely advice from their friend Matt. Rachael sent the first message (because thems the rules), asking about a photo of Aaron holding a tray of Mandelbrot cookies, his grandmother’s family recipe that he’d learned from his Aunt Dena. From there a first date was quickly set up, Aaron suggesting they go for dinner at a ramen spot he had been wanting to check out. Following a great first date, a second date was planned for brunch at a local favorite - with many more planned from there. As they got to know each other, Rachael and Aaron bonded over life in DC, a love of travel, work challenges, and a shared love for Harry Potter through discussions of the great “Binge Mode” podcast. Rachael and Aaron enjoyed biking around DC and embarked on countless adventures together. A year into their relationship, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and shut down the country. Living just a five-minute walk apart from each other made it easier to navigate the uncertainty together. Amidst lockdowns, they cherished a memorable Christmas in Sonoma with the Axelrods and enjoyed a summer filled with exploration in Durango. From the pandemic, Rachael and Aaron came out stronger than ever. In 2022 Rachael and Aaron moved in together in a lovely apartment right next to Audi Field, solidifying their dedicated fandom for the National Women’s Soccer League (Go Spirit!). This is also when their beloved dog Charlie entered the picture. Just a puppy when adopted, Charlie has been a constant companion and member of the family. In December of 2023, Aaron proposed to Rachael in beautiful Durango, and Rachael said YES! Through job changes, Rachael’s grad school, a global pandemic, moving out to California, and Aaron’s MBA program, Rachael and Aaron have always been there for each other and are excited for this new stage of life and adventure together. They can’t wait to celebrate with you in Lisbon!