We're getting married!

Bill grew up in Charlotte and, after living in Colorado for 7 years, decided to return home in early 2015. He relocated his business and bought a house. Things were going swell. Meanwhile, Natalie's job had moved her to Ohio, then Colorado (yes, Bill was there at the same time!), Connecticut, Vermont, and finally North Carolina in late 2014. They both had landed in the same place - now to finally meet! The first date was orchestrated by Bumble, an online dating site where the twist is the girl must message the guy first. Between Bill's clever narrative (something about selfies are the worst) and Natalie's witty response (something else about selfies are totally the worst) - the match was made. They met within 24 hours of chatting on Bumble. Their first date was at Sycamore Brewery for a beer. Then two. Then a kiss in the parking lot! Over the next few weeks, Bill and Natalie became basically inseparable. They clicked. They loved the same things. Their friends got along. They joked that every date felt as exciting as the first, but as comfortable and enjoyable as the thousandth. In early December (about a month after date #1), they were decorating Bill's Christmas tree together. After they finished and as they admired their work, Bill turned to Natalie and said "I have an idea. Let's take a selfie with the tree." Natalie smiled. They took the selfie. And, as it turned out, it was NOT the worst! :)

Bill and Natalie enjoy going on "urban hikes" together. These are essentially long walks through the neighborhood. On this particular Saturday, Bill suggested a new route. This "hike" would leave from Natalie's apartment and head towards Wing Haven, a bird sanctuary and garden in Myers Park. Natalie had never been to Wing Haven, Bill promised it would be fun, and so off they went! [Bride's note: Bill would never allow me to continue this story without some clarification. This did NOT happen as easily as it sounds. I woke up feeling a little sick - allergies, nothing serious - and was also stressed about work. I was actually hoping Bill would give up on this walk to Wing Haven. I almost bailed completely when Bill ran out and bought me medicine and a large coffee. He was being too sweet, I couldn't wimp out. So roughly 3 hours behind his planned schedule, I finally pulled myself together and we left the apartment. OK, glad that's out there. Let's continue.] The walk to Wing Haven was only about a mile along the winding roads of Myers Park. When Bill and Natalie arrived, a nice lady gave them their tickets and a map and pointed them towards the entrance. Bill and Natalie began their stroll through the gardens. The 5-acre property boasted mature tree canopies and many beautiful species of birds. Natalie and Bill walked slowly, enjoying it all. It was an extremely hot and humid afternoon, so Natalie wasn't surprised when Bill suggested they take a seat. They rested on a bench at the head of a simple garden with a fountain at the center. Bill took out his phone. "Let's take a selfie!" Natalie laughed. They smiled at the camera and Bill snapped the photo. Then Bill said "I have a feeling you're going to remember that photo for a long time." In the next few seconds Natalie went from curious, to shocked, to ecstatic as Bill pulled something out of his pocket. He got down on one knee. It was a beautifully romantic and private moment. She said yes!!

We are so thankful to have found each other, and we can't wait to celebrate the blessing & commitment of marriage with the people who made us into who we are today. We are so incredibly grateful for your love and support. We truly hope you can join us! Let's party!!! -Bill & Natalie