We're (finally) getting married!

We stumbled across each other's Tinder profiles, realizing that we had a few shared interests (music, food, beers, etc). Originating from opposite ends of the state, as well as being 30 miles apart while both in SoCal, the two soon-to-be weds would likely have never met each other if not for the choices made leading them both up to this point. From Santa Clara to Fullerton, and from Whittier to Santa Cruz (finally back to Pico Rivera), both journeys may not have been the initial plans but have surely brought both Ben and Deanna right back to where they belong.

Our first date was going out to Dodger Stadium and watching them take on Ben's hometown San Francisco Giants. Being one of the great rivalries in sports, Ben felt behind enemy lines but proudly wore his black and orange SF logo shirt. How'd Deanna want to even stay with him after this? He must've done something right. Following the game the two wound up at a local cocktail bar that doubles as an 80's arcade hall. Getting Deanna home at a decent hour, the two had an amazing evening and set the standard for dates to come.

After celebrating the fact that Deanna had just received her Master's Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, family and friends both near and far all gathered at a party. Surrounded by all forms of love and support, Ben saw a perfect opportunity. After receiving blessings from both of her grandparents, Ben moved forward with his proposal plans for Deanna. With a ring that belonged to the late Grandma Frances (Ben's grandmother), and after everyone watched a video put together by him with the help of his mom Heather, Ben got on his knee. With everyone as witnesses he let Deanna know just much having her as a life partner has benefited him in every possible way. Words could never articulate how much the both mean to each other, but this was a blessing of a start. The night went on with the popping of bubbly and various bottles, all while dancing the night away surrounded by the best of company.