We first met in 2022 through mutual friends at the 50th annual Twin Cities Pride Festival. Amid the celebration and chaos, we barely acknowledged each other. Thankfully, our paths crossed again later that year through the same friends, then continued to cross as Calisto invited Laura to more group hangouts. Our first official date was December 26, 2022. Nothing says romance like post-Christmas shopping at the Mall of America. Between shopping bags and laughter, we knew this was different. We ended the night at a wine bar with friends, but by then, we were already becoming each other’s favorite person. Laura knew Calisto was the one when she realized they loved all the same things: camping, kayaking, hiking, biking, and pretty much any excuse to be outdoors. Even more than that, their friend groups blended effortlessly, and Calisto challenged Laura in ways no one else ever had — while always making space for her to be herself. Calisto knew Laura was the one when “spending all our time together” became the default. Somewhere along the way, Laura became her best friend — the person she wanted beside her for everything. The idea of not sharing life together simply stopped making sense. In true “us” fashion, we couldn’t settle for just one proposal. Calisto proposed first on the shores of Lake Michigan at the beautiful Cana Island Lighthouse. It was especially meaningful because lighthouses have always been one of Laura’s favorite things, steady, guiding lights standing strong against the waves (which feels a little symbolic, if you ask us). It was a beautiful day out, peaceful and absolutely perfect. Fun fact: the very next day, 70+ mph winds rolled in, stranding visitors and forcing the lighthouse to close for three days. Clearly, our love brings dramatic weather. Laura proposed later at Devil's Kettle Waterfall in Judge C. R. Magney State Park, because nothing says forever like a breathtaking waterfall and a little adventure. Adventure, after all, is kind of our thing. Together, we’re on a mission to visit all 64 Minnesota State Parks and 9 State Recreation Areas — and camp at those that offer it. So far, we’ve explored 16 state parks in three years (with many more campfires to come). We’ve also set our sights on visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks together — we’re currently at two, but hey, we’ve got a lifetime to finish the list. At the heart of it all, our story is about friendship, adventure, challenge, and choosing each other every single day. We are each other’s favorite hiking partner, camping buddy, travel companion, and best friend. From Pride Festivals to lighthouses, waterfalls, and everywhere in between, this is just the beginning of our greatest adventure yet. 💛 We can’t wait to celebrate this special day surrounded by our closest friends and family, and we truly hope you enjoy every part of the day with us. To our families—your love, support, and help have meant everything in making this day possible, and we are so incredibly grateful.