In 2013 Brandon and Katelyn first saw each other while passing through the halls of Grayslake North high school and were immediately drawn to each other. They hadn't even learned each others names yet and most definitely felt a strong energy between the two of them. After a mutual friend of there's managed to plant the seed, Brandon reached out to Katelyn and from there they really started getting to know each other. For their first date they went to Suzy Swirl...ice cream have been their favorite go-to ever since (even after a good gym session hehe). After they had both graduated high school, they began their long distance journey; Brandon went ASU and Katelyn stayed in Chicago to attend Columbia College. It was not easy, but they got by through sending each other sweet letters in the mail and visiting each other whenever possible. After that first year, Katelyn took the leap of moving to Arizona to be closer to Brandon and because why the heck not!!! They spent the next 7 years living a beautiful and fun life together in Arizona. As of now, they are happily living in Long Beach, California with their three fur babies Roxy, Zeppelin and Ziggy & ice cream dates are still their favorite tradition.

For their 9 year anniversary, Brandon and Katelyn planned a mini stay-cation in Santa Barbara, California. They spent the weekend exploring the beautiful little town, wine tasting, eating tons of amazing seafood, and even hiked to the Santa Barbara Hot Springs. The morning of their hot spring excursion, they woke up to a gloomy sky and rain (what are the odds?) but they embraced the weather, snagged a few ponchos, and went on their way. The fog and slight mist from the rain that day added the most tranquil sentiment in the air that neither of them would ever forget. The entire energy on that hike was so clear and light. Per usual, they stopped many times to take photos and take in the scenery on their hike out of the springs. After the most amazing day, and relaxing in the beautiful hot springs, Brandon popped the question while they stood on the edge of a waterfall. The day after, before leaving town, they made their way to a private beach entrance and celebrated their engagement by taking film photos using one of Brandon's cameras. You can see some of these beautiful photos if you visit the gallery.