Daniel and Danielle's love story is a tale as old as time... they met on Hinge, of course. Back in October 2019, Daniel and Danielle swiped right and made plans for a first date. However, Daniel had to cancel due to some last-minute "family drama" (IYKYK) and it seemed like their story would end there. Fast forward a couple of weeks, Danielle received a text from Daniel saying his family drama had magically cleared up and he was ready for their date. Initially skeptical, Danielle decided to have a little fun. She made a bet that if the Clippers (Daniel's team) beat the Lakers (Danielle's team) in the 2019 opening-day game, Daniel could take her out. She thought she was safe - the Lakers had just acquired Anthony Davis and were an All-Star Dream team. But, thanks to some twist of fate, the Lakers lost and Danielle went on that first date. It was clear she wasn't looking for anything serious, but Daniel, with his well-mannered and thoughtful nature, made a strong impression. A few months into dating, COVID-19 changed everyone's lives. They went from seeing each other a couple times a week to quarantining together. During this challenging time, something wonderful happened. Danielle realized that Daniel was truly special and couldn't believe she hadn't noticed sooner. Once the COVID dust settled (still settling?), the two moved in together and haven't looked back. Fast forward to today, they have built a beautiful life filled with family and friends, and they cannot wait to share their love with everyone on November 2nd. Here's to many years of happiness and love!

The plan was simple: a surprise proposal at the Del Mar City Hall overlooking the ocean instead of our usual Friday end-of-the-week celebratory Happy Hour. However, the execution was far from simple. With the helpful coordination from family, friends, a photographer and a violinist, the perfect engagement took place on June 16th, 2023. It was the best day of their lives. As the workday ended the two began getting ready for the evening. As Danielle got ready, Daniel encouraged her to dress a little nicer than usual, joking that they should start dressing up more so the proposal wouldn't be too obvious when it happened. I mean hey, that makes sense! So they put on their nice clothes and went out for happy hour. They arrived a bit early; the restaurant they were going to wasn't open yet. Daniel took Danielle to the beautiful Del Mar City Hall which overlooks the ocean. How strange was it that a violinist was there in a picture-perfect location practicing and playing music. Daniel reassured Danielle that this was normal for Del Mar - people often whip out their violins and serenade strangers. That explanation seemed plausible. As they held each other close and enjoyed the beautiful views Daniel thought Danielle might catch on to what was happening especially since the violinist was playing her favorite songs. But no, she didn't. The violinist started with "Hallelujah" (a Shrek classic) and then began playing "Lucky" by Jason Mraz (Daniel and Danielle's song). That was Daniel's cue to get down on one knee. The hidden photographer jumped into place and he got to ask the love of his life to marry him. Danielle was shocked and hadn't expected the proposal at that time or place. After what felt like an eternity she said "YES," marking the beginning of their happily ever after. After taking some photos to document the moment (pics or it didn't happen!) they headed to their celebration dinner at Jake's Del Mar. With roses waiting on the table they enjoyed celebratory martinis and a delicious meal. After dinner they went home for what was supposed to be "desserts with the family." In reality it was a surprise celebration with their family and friends, many of whom had flown in from around the country to be part of this special moment. The night was filled with sushi, charcuterie, delicious desserts, music and champagne, and ended with dancing the night away at a nearby bar. June 16, 2023 is a day that Daniel and Danielle will never forget.