Although we actually met in second grade and knew each other throughout elementary school (Alex is actually Ayako’s first crush), we went to different middle schools and somehow did not see one another throughout high school partly because the school was so big and we just never really crossed paths then. Years later, we reconnected in June of 2019 thanks to our mutual friend Matthew Martinsek, now Alex’s Best Man, who reconnected us. Alex then invited Ayako out for a date, the connection was immediate and the rest is history!

On the weekend of June 17th, 2023, we went on a long awaited and much needed mini vacation at Ravenwood Castle in Hocking Hills. We had booked a beautiful suite in the castle itself and a romantic dinner for two that very evening. Unbeknownst to me, Alex had planned the proposal and had requested a staff member to record the whole thing. Next thing I knew, Alex was down on one knee and asked me to marry him, and I said YES!!! We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you! See you in Columbus! :-)