We're getting married!!

We met on Hinge during the summer of 2021, right in the middle of that weird, slightly unhinged (pun intended) era of post-lockdown dating. With masks half-off and everyone relearning how to have conversations, it somehow worked— we are each other's favorite thing found on the internet. Even though Lauren already knew she’d eventually head back to San Diego, she also knew something good was in store. She stayed in Washington for another year, and we moved in together. By the time we packed up and moved to Carlsbad together in summer 2023, we’d already built something solid and were pretty sure this day was coming. In November 2024, after a string of “secret dates” that Arend had planned (Lauren knew a proposal was coming, just not when), it finally happened on secret date #4. It was during one of our usual walks along the beach on the way to dinner. Arend didn't even have to lie to get Lauren to stop and watch the dolphins playing near Tower 37- while she was distracted, he got out the ring and got down on his knee. The proposal was perfect. These days, we are loving life just a few blocks from the ocean. Lauren is soaking up the chance to be near family and friends again, and Arend’s fully embraced his inner surf bum. We recently took up pottery together (surprisingly not a disaster!)—you’ll spot our handmade pieces decorating the wedding and maybe even take one home as a favor. We’re so excited to celebrate this next step with all the people we love!