Caitlin and Josh’s love story began in April 2024 when they showed up at Everest Park to play pickleball. Josh took one look at her and knew his life would be changed forever. From that moment, they were inseparable. From playing pickleball and dining out afterwards, at various Kirkland establishments, to getting lost in conversation and closing every place down! They both came to each other with open hearts in sharing their stories with one another. In the beginning their relationship was built on learning each other's backgrounds, family, friendships, values, faith, common hobbies and how they viewed the world through the same lens. Their feelings for each other were undeniable and a sense of caring for each other was evident early on. They confessed each other’s love as Caitlin was headed off to Europe for the first part of her travels. For the next month, their love continued to grow and intensify while apart from each other. They spent countless mornings and nights on FaceTime, writing each other love letters and continuing to grow the friendship from afar that serves as the foundation of their relationship to this day. While Caitlin was away, Josh told her that he wanted to join her on the rest of the trip through the New Year. He resigned from his job, found a renter for his home and was all in on continuing to grow his love with Caitlin while they traveled the world together. They set off on their journey through Europe, Africa and South America for the next five months. They traveled to many countries together, shared incredible experiences, learned from each other, learned from new cultures, met new friends and, most importantly, continued to strengthen their relationship and love for one another. They swam in the Black Sea, Adriatic Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, Ionian Sea, Mediterranean Sea and many more. They cruised the coastlines of Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Portugal and the entire West Coast of Africa. They kissed under the Eiffel Tower, danced in the rain in the streets of Paris, attended the Olympics, sang with Irish bands in Dublin and Galway, made pasta with locals in Puglia and Emilia Romagna, got engaged on the Amalfi Coast in Positano, archipelago hopped in Italy, Spain, Portugal and Africa, explored the West Coast of Africa on a cruise ship and stayed in the Amazon in Brazil. Whether it's playing pickleball in Kirkland or traveling the world together, Caitlin and Josh's love has no boundaries. It was fate that brought these two together and love that will continue to guide them in their journey.
Caitlin fell in love with Italy many years ago and finally achieved her lifelong goal of living there last year. She lived in Sorrento, along the Amalfi Coast. This year she was able to introduce Italy to Josh and he fell in love with her as much as Caitlin has. Together, they spent a lot of summer traveling through most of Italy and really focused on the Puglia region. Puglia holds a special place in their hearts. Not only is it the place they'll be married in, but it's a region of rich culture, delicious food, endless coastlines with beautiful beaches, and vibrant towns. They appreciate that this may be a far destination for most, but they can't wait to celebrate their special day with you! And also to share a country, region and culture that is near and dear to both of their hearts. This region along the Adriatic is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, exquisite wine, flavorful olive oil and delectable cuisine. Puglia is a haven of natural beauty and warm hospitality. This region has carved a niche as an ideal destination for road trips. The region offers a mix of experiences, including charming towns, beautiful beaches, historic cities, vineyards and cultural delights. From the beautiful sea cliffs of Polignano a Mare, to the churches of Lecce and the iconic Trulli houses of Alberobello. May your exploration of this region be filled with joy and unforgettable moments. They hope you enjoy Puglia as much as they do!
Castello Monaci: “1500. In this century the story of Castello Monaci begins, as reported in a document of Salice Salentino land register. The castle took its name from the Basilian monks who used it as a place to worship, meditate and give refuge to those who need it. Then, the noble families chose it as their own residence: from the Martino to the Parry Graniger, up to the Provenzano di Ugento, whose last heir, Mrs. Memmo, is the present castle’s owner. Six centuries beautifully wore by this fortification, to which history brought many a threat – the last one being during the II World War – yet keeps its charm unaltered and still hedges historic and artistic pieces. Italy, Apulia. Salento. Here, among the centuries-old olive trees and the ancient grapeyards, here the white stone of Castello Monaci rises up from the brown soil, with its great towers covered in ivy, the palm trees and green gardens.”