We matched and immediately hit it off when she said a corny dad joke to me. We talked for a month getting to know one another while I finished grad school, and exactly a month later on 04/27, went on our first date of axe throwing and a brewery. Both of us were a little nervous but had a lighthearted night that ended up being the connection we needed to fall in love, become forever partners in crime and adventure buddies!

Originally, we went and had been casually looking at rings and finally, after months, found the perfect one. Unfortunately, the ring was almost out of stock so, Chris let her believe he was unable to get it and would figure it out. He went out and got it sent in from Arizona just a couple weeks later, and then went to get it finished a few months later. Though Brittany had suspicions, she believed the proposal would not happen until the end of August. Chris was able to convince her that he was doing a photo shoot for some friends as a late anniversary celebration. Chris also had a secret... he always wanted to make his own custom engagement ring box out of wood, so with the help of parents, was able to get the Black Walnut wood, suede material and other supplies. Each day for a week they practiced and perfected the wood until satisfied with the final product just in the nick of time, while planning and corresponding with family and friends. Finally, unbeknownst to Brittany, the scene was set, and everyone was in place, and as Chris took photos in a Lavender field at 123 Farms in Yucaipa, he casually asked for a photo of the 2 of them. Getting ready and setting a few things down, he almost got caught pulling the ring box out of his backpack but was able to hide it. Finally in place, family rushed in and was able to surprise her, and before she knew what was going on, he was down on one knee and the answer was a quick, ecstatic and resounding "YES!" We are so excited to have found our life partner and cannot wait to have you all part of our special day! Love, the Future Mr. and Mrs. Schulte