This story starts waaaaay back in the spring of 2016, when Erik had short hair and Sydney was just a freshman at UW-Madison. They had crossed paths through mutual friends on a few occasions that semester… First, there was a quick introduction at a campus org fair. Then a house party, where Sydney overheard Erik negotiating to turn down the music. Lucky for him, she was taking a class on hearing and his gesture got a conversation going. Sydney tried to manufacture a third chance encounter by requesting that “Cute Erik” deliver donuts to her dorm room for a fundraiser - but regrettably, he didn’t take the bait. But a rainy, April day proved to be the true beginning of their relationship. Sydney walked into a friend's apartment and a stray ping pong ball rolled to her feet. If Erik’s aim had been slightly better that day, this wedding may not be happening… On their first few dates, they quickly realized they had a knack for making each other laugh and found it almost too easy to be themselves around each other. They decided to make their relationship “official” that November - just 7 months after their first date (rushing into things has never really been a staple of their 8 year road to marriage). A lot happened over the next few years. Erik graduated once. Sydney graduated twice. They went long distance when Sydney took a job in Minnesota. Being apart was just too much for these love birds so when Sydney found a job in California, Erik couldn’t help but join her! They loaded up the Subaru and headed West, where they’ve been ever since (other than a 5 month stretch where they moved back in with their parents). They celebrated their 7th anniversary with a trip to one of their favorite Wiscosin parks - and that’s where Erik popped the question! This love story was made all the better with the loving support of friends and family! We are so grateful to have you all in our lives and cannot wait to celebrate our merry matrimony with you!