We should all raise a glass and thank Samantha Lewis-Carden at our wedding because Sam was responsible for Ciaran and Kelly meeting! Kelly and Sam worked together at the Small Business Administration (saving the world) and often talked about all life topics in between saving California, Texas, and Florida from hurricane destruction. During one of our conversations Sam said "You've got to meet my friend Ciaran I feel like you guys would really hit it off." Although initially hesitant (bad prior set up experience) Kelly agreed to come to Sam and Pat's apartment for a game night. Game night was super (COMPETITIVE)... i mean.. fun and we stayed late at Sam and Pat's talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. From that point on Ciaran and Kelly knew this was something special and rare and worth pursuing!

Our first (official) date was at Iron Horse Tavern in Midtown! Ciaran wolfed down a burger in an impressive amount of time (his trademark skill) and there was a connection that continued to grow stronger as their conversation progressed throughout the night. We didn't want the night to end so we decided to spend all day Saturday and all day Sunday together. Instead of a first date it was more of a weekend of first dates. We still go to Iron Horse every now and again for drinks and to relive the magic happening at a nice little two top table in the back :)

On a last minute whim (or so Kelly thought) the two decided to go to Tahoe for a weekend to get away at the lake. That same weekend Holly (Sam and Pats pup) was staying with us so the four of us hit the road together! The pups were in a new environment and sniffed every inch of the cabin when they arrived. Hyped up on lots of energy Holly and Reilly didn't calm down all night... till 3am to be specific. The two crazy dogs kept us awake all night and by the time 6am rolled around we were exhausted but awake. Ciaran suggested that since we were up we might as well hike Eagle Rock and see the tail end of sunrise. Kelly suspected nothing so she threw on some Lulu's, a scrunchie, and left her phone at the cabin. Ciaran was basically sprinting up the side of the mountain and Kelly (without any coffee in her) was struggling to keep up. When we finally got to the top Kelly was WINDED to say the least (cardio at altitude be damned) but Ciaran suggested she go take a picture with the puppies and the view in the background. This was met with a swift "No i'm winded" from Kelly but Ciaran eventually forced her. After walking to the viewspot Kelly turned around and Ciaran was on one knee, ring in hand (NO RING BOX!!!) He asked and she said yes.. after a few tears and being told he needed a verbal answer. There could not have been a more magical view, with the four of us by ourselves enjoying the moment. It was the perfect place to propose and after it all made sense why Ciaran was hustling up the mountain.. because he had a loose ring in his pocket and just wanted to get it done! It was one of the best moments of our lives. This story was written by Reilly and Holly.. the only two witnesses to the proposal. :)