We've Eloped!!

Jake and I met in the 5th grade. Our brothers set us up on a date and we were to meet at our neighborhood playground that day. My sister had just highlighted my hair and I was feeling good. I grabbed my sector 9 and headed that way to meet my future husband ( I know, so weird). I remembered he talked the whole time. I vividly remember him telling me "my Mom's a Cop, thank you very much." A second date was never established and we went our separate ways. Fast forward, my Dad hired Jake shortly after returning from living in Maui with his two best friends. When I first locked eyes with him, I knew he was something special. I called one of my best friends to ask her if she remembered Jake from High School. She did, and I informed her he was the newest Specialty employee and possibly my new boyfriend. I went over to his house a couple days after my 25th birthday where our bothers and mutual friends were hanging out. He greeted me outside his building with a Bud Light that he was spilling everywhere. I gladly accepted the drink and after all these years, the highlights were gone but Jake was still as chatty as I remember. We spent the next few years running wild in Downtown San Diego, traveling, watching our friends get married, becoming cat parents and establishing a strong bond. We experienced highs and lows but we've never stopped laughing and making the best at of all our situations. I truly consider myself very lucky knowing I'm married to one of the kindest and most caring people I have ever met. Stay safe, we love and miss you all!! Deborah

When Jake and I were trying to come up with ideas for our elopement, our friends suggested we check out a property they had visited in Ojai. It didn't take long for us to decide that this special property was like something we had never seen. We were lucky to be joined by two of our great friends, Jess and Allen. Their friendship means a lot to us. They went above and beyond to make our day special. They kept us laughing, Jess made amazing food and Allen performed our ceremony. Jess made sure we had everything we needed, took our pictures, was our witness, and was over all a great person and friend to be standing by me that day. (She also made sure Hanson was included in our playlist. True friend). Life has thrown some curve balls lately, but we are thankful and grateful for that day. To our friends and family who always checked in on us, who sent cards, videos, wrote us notes for our wedding day, who planned special dinners for Jake and I, who let me cry and complain non-stop (I'll admit it and I'm sorry!!!) We are so thankful for you and we will never forget! To my Dad and my amazing in-laws, Marti & Garry. Thank you for making sure we had the best experience possible. Love, D & J