After texting for weeks around the holidays, we finally were able to meet for dinner as a bad winter storm was rolling in. Even without the impending snow, this date almost never happened, between Kelsey’s nerves and Colin’s unfamiliarity with Boston traffic. While Kelsey waited for Colin to arrive, she noticed someone she used to talk to but never ended up going on a date with. After a slightly awkward moment as Colin initially entered the restaurant, it is now a funny little aside in our story. After we sat down and took our first sips of beer, the conversation flowed effortlessly, as if we had known each other for years. So much so that Kelsey felt it was appropriate to let Colin know that we were having our first date on her sister’s birthday, casually sharing with him that she had passed away just three years prior. While it might not be the most conventional first date advice to share something so personal and potentially heavy, Colin responded with understanding and compassion. Not wanting the date to end despite the smart choice being for both of us to get home before the snow got worse, Kelsey brought Colin to her favorite dive bar in the area. Sligo held a special place in Kelsey’s heart and she knew it was somewhere she wanted to share with him. The conversations continued and before we knew it, hours flew by and it was time to head out. Kelsey “picked up the tab”, meaning she got the drinks for free because she was one of their best regulars at Sligo. Over the following six and a half years, we have faced a lot of challenges and joy side-by-side, strengthening our bond along the way. We've created countless memories and our story has continued to evolve beyond these initial experiences. And now, as we eagerly anticipate our big day, we look back fondly on that snowy night when we decided to throw caution to the wind and hang out a bit longer. We are so glad we did! It was the start of an adventure that led us to this point, and we can't wait to party and have a blast with all of you, our awesome friends and family. Join us as we embark on the next chapter!