Like many modern love stories, ours began with a swipe. We matched on Tinder in March 2018 and decided to meet for our very first date at Cherokee Park in Louisville, Kentucky. From our first kiss under Hogan's Fountain, we both knew there was something special. It was hands down the best first date either of us had ever been on, and by the end of the day, we both knew it was a done deal. In fact, Eric unofficially moved in that very same week—and the rest, as they say, is history. More than eight years later, we're so grateful that one swipe led us to forever.
Just a few short months after we met, one summer night in July—after perhaps one too many bourbon slushies at a T-Pain and Chris Stapleton concert—Eric looked at Ashley and boldly declared, “I’m going to put a baby in you.” As it turns out… he wasn't kidding. On February 14, 2019—Eric’s birthday and Valentine’s Day—our greatest adventure began when our sweet son, Noah, entered the world eight weeks early. From the very beginning, he showed us just how strong and resilient he is. Becoming parents changed our lives in the best possible way. Noah has brought us more love, laughter, and joy than we ever could have imagined, and we truly can't picture our lives without him. Watching him grow has been the greatest privilege!
In November 2018, Eric planned the perfect surprise. He got down on one knee beneath the very same fountain where he and Ashley had shared their first kiss and asked her to spend forever with him. Of course, she said yes. What started with a swipe on Tinder had quickly turned into a once-in-a-lifetime love story, and there was no more meaningful place to begin the next chapter than where one of their favorite memories was made.
Life had a few more adventures in store for us before making it to the altar. We navigated the challenges of COVID, spent a couple of years traveling for nursing assignments, and eventually put down roots in Indianapolis. Along the way, we discovered a shared love for craft beer and exploring local breweries. What started as a fun thing to do while traveling quickly became one of our favorite hobbies, and over the years we've visited more than 100 breweries across multiple states. When it came time to plan our wedding, there was never any question where we wanted to say "I do"—it had to be a brewery. After searching for nearly two years for the perfect venue, we stumbled upon Rhinegeist. Just like our very first date, we both instantly knew it was the one and are looking forward to starting our forever there!