We got to know each other working together as servers at a Texas Roadhouse. After a few months of flirting we set a date for dinner. Duke’s Alehouse was the place that started our grand adventure. We talked on and on until we became that table that won’t leave. We had lovely conversations about growing up in the Midwest, traveling to other places and what we wanted out of life. We continued our conversations and had an incredible time playing giant Jenga in the lounge area. It was very apparent that something special was forming from the first few serious moments. Especially when we bonded over a free dessert that a nice server brought over because we were having so much fun and the kitchen had an extra. After that date we were smitten with one another and the rest of the grand adventure continued on.

After graduation Darwin moved out to LA and Cate joined shortly after. We called Hermosa Beach home even though it felt like a vacation for almost a year. Darwin planned a romantic San Diego getaway. After Cate got her nails done, we relaxed in our hotel watching some shows while eating junk food and wearing face masks then went to bed early. We got up at 4am to drive to the first destination of the day. A surprise sunrise balloon tour of Temecula Wine country was unfortunately drowned out by the cloudiest of days. Life is about adapting and overcoming and a happy wife leads to a happy life. Darwin quickly changed the course of the morning to a Target shopping spree and then a well deserved nap at the hotel. We got ready for our second event of the day, walking around the botanical gardens of Balboa Park. Darwin wanted to warm up our picture taking and posing skills for the engagement photoshoot following the ask. We had an amazing time walking around the park and taking pictures together until the selfie tripod that we had been using broke. After asking many strangers to take our pictures we called it a day and went to one of the coolest revolving sushi bars. After sushi we drove over to Torrey Pines National park. We took our shoes off and walked along the beach. Darwin had hired a surprise photographer for the big moment. After walking along the beach and reminiscing on a day full of ups and downs we were happy to be together and make the most of out. The photographer texted that we were in the perfect spot and after glancing at the notification on his wrist he dropped to one knee to ask. It was the perfect moment and a small crowd of strangers gathered with some clapping and a few tears by us. You can see the results of the pictures that we have from the hour engagement photoshoot that followed. It was not perfect but as perfect as real life can be. We drove home ecstatic truly living the grand adventure we have envisioned since our first date.