We're getting Married!

We met for the first time prior to this date like most other millennials - on a dating app. Afterwards we met in person at a coffee shop on Cherrywood Ave in Austin, TX. Everything just clicked. I was quiet and shy. Celeste was friendly and couldn't stop smiling. After spending hours drinking coffee, eating tacos, and rock climbing, we both felt the longing to spend more time with each other. It was at that moment that our path together began.

For the first time in 2 years, Celeste was going home to visit family. Since it was my first time in Peru, Celeste really wanted to take me to Machu Picchu. We made our arrangements - reservations and tour guide. Unbeknownst to Cele, I had arranged for an incognito photographer to work with our tour guide for the perfect proposal at the ancient city. We got to Machu Picchu at 7 AM and could only see clouds. We, along with 200+ tourists, waited for 2 hours for the cloud cover to dissipate. Once the clouds were gone, our guide had us hold hands while our eyes were closed for an ancient Incan prayer and at the end, I was down on one knee. I somehow choked through some words. Celeste cried and said "Yes," and we were engaged.

Midway through 2022, we thought it would be best to be legally married before our marriage ceremony in Peru. But the best part... our ceremony in Lima will be EXACTLY one year after our civil marriage. We anxiously had to wait until 1 week before our desired date in order to make an appointment. When we got there, with Oliver and our families in tow, we were nervous. The clerk was reassuring and kind while he drafted our wedding certificate. At the end, Celeste paid $30 and we were told there were no refunds! Both of our moms signed our wedding certificate and of course, Oliver did too - it wouldn't be complete without him! We exchanged our rings. Gave each other a kiss, and then went out into the cold and snowy day for a celebration in downtown Denver. We are excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you all in Lima!