In 2015, we were introduced through friends at an Oakland climbing gym. That first meeting was memorable - we sat on the mat and bonded over our environmental non-profit careers and midwestern home towns. Fast forward to spring 2016. We were thrilled to match on Bumble, but missed the connection when we unknowingly deleted the app at different times. We both asked the same mutual friend if we should ask each other out, and of course the answer was yes. Our first date was attending a play on the lawn at Stanford Law School and getting drinks at the Phone Booth. We immediately knew we found something special, and that beyond our shared values was a deep emotional connection. Later that week Ethan opened for Jewel and Heather met his dad, brother, and closest friends. Later that month Heather graduated law school and Ethan met her whole family. Over the last 9 years we grew closer by surviving long distance, learning how to live (and co-work) together in a tiny one-bedroom apartment, starting (several) new jobs, falling in love with LA, taking a wild three-month road trip, supporting each other during long work trips apart, cuddling through the pandemic, balancing our passions for late night music and early morning beach walks, and navigating countless adventures, challenges, and magic moments we never could have anticipated. We’ve learned to be a team that grounds each other, supports our individual passions, and takes time to enjoy life’s big and little moments. In April 2023, Ethan proposed on a picnic overlooking the ocean near Two Harbors on Catalina Island. After years of guessing her birthday presents correctly, Heather was literally shocked that he could pull off a surprise and sweep her off her feet. She said yes! Our friends, family, and community have been with us through it all. We could not be more grateful for you, and for this once in a lifetime opportunity to bring everyone together. We can’t wait to party with you all in August!