We're getting married!

Our story wouldn’t exist without our dear friend Marika. Toward the end of Claire’s time in LA, after living in New York and San Francisco, she took a short break from PR to work on events for CPG brands. That’s where she met Marika, and the two instantly connected. Marika still lived in LA, but when she came down to visit San Diego, she and Claire grabbed lunch. Over that meal, Marika asked if Claire was dating anyone. Claire laughed and said she wasn’t interested - she was taking a break. When pressed about her “type,” Claire simply said, “I just want a guy with a good heart, that's most important to me.” Right there at the table, Marika texted Kevin including a photo: “I have the perfect girl for you that you need to take out.” Kevin responded immediately: “I would love to. We actually matched on Hinge and she never responded to me, lol.” Claire cracked up (she hated the apps), and they both laughed at the coincidence as it unfolded in real time. At the end of lunch, Marika grinned and said, “What if this works… I must give a speech at the wedding." Marika, start preparing your speech! As if the universe wanted them to meet, both Claire and Kevin happened to be in San Francisco the weekend before their first date. Kevin was there for his best friend Sean’s wedding — which, in another wild twist, was planned by one of Claire’s good college friends as her very first wedding under her own business. Soon after, Claire and Kevin had their first date in Encinitas. It was a Monday night, and even though Claire had just flown back from San Francisco that day (Kevin gave her every out), she insisted on going and said "I'm my mother's daughter...I'll be just fine." They ended up shutting down the restaurant, and from there, every date got longer and longer. What began with an unforgettable connection and first date, quickly grew into a deep love and friendship. Today, their hearts (and lives) are happily full — with plenty of exploring, trying new restaurants, Oregon Ducks football, family dinners, beach walks, and of course, their beloved pup Beau, who will play a special part in their wedding day.