Happily Ever After

When 11:11 hits the clock, many people stop and make a wish. We matched on November 11th, and it was truly a wish come true. Our first date started with a drink and appetizers at a local restaurant, continuing on to many locations and fun activities because we weren't ready for the date to end. A short two weeks after meeting, John made it official. Have you ever heard "when you know, you know" and just rolled your eyes? Yeah, me too, until we met. The next year was filled with growth, both together and individually. We set goals, chased them, and supported each other throughout the whole process. Our goals and desires for life aligned perfectly. The constant love, support, and communication made for a great team and a beautiful relationship.

There was a local Christmas market that John’s mom wanted to visit while they were in town. She asked if my parents wanted to go too, and although I didn’t expect my dad to join, since John and Juan were going, he decided to tag along as well. (Turns out that was already part of the plan, and it played out really well.) We all went, grabbed some dinner, and as we were leaving, my dad asked if I wanted to take a picture by the Christmas tree. My response was something like, “No, it’s fine.” Then John suggested we should, so I agreed (still very much oblivious to what was going on). I was so oblivious, in fact, that I was being my normal goofy self and climbing the box the tree was on! We took some pictures, and I walked away, talking to John’s mom about what other pictures she wanted to take. Meanwhile, John was already down on one knee, and I was still completely oblivious. At this point, everyone was commenting on how the tree looked, and when I looked through someone’s phone, I was confused why they were all taking pictures of John (I know, right... get a clue, Abby!). My dad had to come over, put his arm around me, and turn me toward the tree. Then, I (finally) saw a box in John’s hand and realized he was down on one knee! He’s truly the most amazing man, and I’m so excited I get to marry him!

Before getting engaged, we had several conversations about where we would have our wedding. With family and friends in so many different places, we knew that no matter what, people would have to travel. We discussed a destination wedding to make it fair for everyone, and we even considered a destination elopement. Ultimately, we decided the best decision for us was to focus on celebrating our love and not worrying about anything else. So, we chose to have a micro-ceremony with only our parents and siblings in attendance, and celebrate at a big reception with all of our family and friends. When we got engaged, John was halfway through basic training for the Army, and we didn't enjoy the distance. John's training was going to keep him away for a year and a half, and we didn’t want to be separated for that long. So, after John got to California, I visited him during spring break, and we took a little trip to the courthouse! I spent the morning pampering myself just as a bride-to-be does on her wedding day. I played music, got more and more excited as the day went on, and soaked in all the exciting butterflies knowing I was about to marry my best friend. That afternoon, I picked John up and we headed to the courthouse to say "I do!"

Even though we are already married, we still want to celebrate with all of our family and friends! We will not be having a traditional full wedding. Instead, we want to focus on celebrating and having fun with all of you. The party will start after dinner time, so make sure you fill up and are ready for a fun night!