We're tying the knot!

It was New Year's Eve 2008 or 2009, and James was at a coworker's house party at the South Street Seaport. Not expecting to meet anyone that night, James spent most of the time around the beer pong table and watching sports. Then, the front door swung open, in walked Sam, definitely in slow motion and maybe with some smoke effects as James recalls. With the sobering power of three splashes of water on his face, James gathered and walked towards Sam, saying to himself, "You got this, but maybe keep it short, like two sentences max". Anyway, neither of them remember what was said. BUT, two days later James bumps into Sam in Midtown. Oversharing per usual, James says 'You never see the girl again, but I did! You're the girl!' Somehow not freaked out, Sam gave her number.

Keuka Lake is special to Sam and James. The first time they spent significant time together, James joined Sam and her friends for a weekend wine tour. James was able to get to know Sam better and hear first hand from her friends how great she is. Keuka has continued to be a special place where they have shared wine tours with friends, Thanksgivings with family and July 4th with both! They're looking forward to adding "wedding" to the list.

Sam moved to LA before James, and eight months is a LONG time apart. When James was finally able to secure a move out to LA, he surprised her by landing a night early. After a slightly bumpy execution (ahem)... he popped the question that night! The next day they moved into their first apartment together in Santa Monica.