We met on the sun drenched pickleball courts of Santa Monica, and it was love at first dink. As Rachael was just visiting from the Bay Area, and Christian was living his best life down in Southern California, they decided to give their budding romance a drive shot and dated long distance for over a year. Through countless phone calls and Spirit flights, they got to know each other deeply, and bonded over their nostalgia for childhood creek hikes searching for salamanders. The humble salamander came to represent some important concepts for their relationship: a commitment to growth and renewal (since salamanders are known for their incredible ability to regrow lost limbs!!), and a reminder to always embrace that sense of play and childlike wonder Christian and Rachael had both experienced searching for creek creatures in their youth. So! We invite you to embrace the Salamander Spirit at our wedding: bring out your inner child through magic shows, outdoor games, and dancing, and reflect on what the concept of "renewal" might look like for you!