Katherine and Ryan met at church--classic story right? Except not. Katherine's earliest memory of Ryan was when he bought a textbook from her for a steal (and later sold it for profit). After that, they would occasionally text one another whenever they needed a carpool buddy. Ryan also began saving her a seat on the bus during their commutes to UW. If you think that's where their relationship blossomed, you're wrong. Because Ryan literally napped 100% of every bus ride. Eventually, their friendship did progress--they discovered in one another a mutual competitiveness for board games and a shared love for Harry Potter. When Katherine learned Ryan had read all 7 Harry Potter books (the books > the movies), her heart opened up to him just a little more. After three years of close friendship, they thought perhaps there could be more. Ryan made the first move and gave Katherine two tickets to The Lion King on Broadway for her birthday. However, Katherine, not wanting to be presumptuous, exclaimed, "Wow this is great! I'm going to bring Gary!" to which Ryan responded "Oh, I thought I would go with you..." In conclusion, they made it official after watching The Lion King together (*Can You Feel The Love Tonight begins playing*) and haven't looked back since!

Shortly after making it official, Katherine left for grad school in sunny San Diego. Little did they know, these two would be in a long-distance relationship for the next three years. But they learned to communicate and love one another from afar. From eating Chipotle together over FaceTime every anniversary to weekend beach trips, they are thankful for every day they have been together. Their journey now comes full circle as they will return to San Diego (where they will eat tacos and live happily ever after) for Ryan to pursue grad school. Although they are extremely sad to leave their friends and family, all of whom they would not be here without, they know God has an amazing plan for them as they begin their marriage away from home. They are so excited to celebrate their special day and the beginning of the next chapter with each and every one of you!