"We're just friends!" we'd say, truly believing it. From road trips to dinner dates, we spent so much time together that the people around us made jokes that we were already a couple. They weren’t entirely wrong—we just hadn’t realized it yet. One day, after making dinner and watching one of our favorite movies (shout out to the Secret Life of Walter Mitty), Gabe decided to take the leap, and he kissed me as he said goodnight. Of course, being us, for a month we both pretended that it never happened. Finally, we talked, admitted that we liked each other in more than just a “best friend” way, and agreed to give it a shot. We’d always talked about how much we loved Seattle. We had our own individual histories and incredible times over the years there so, nearly a year into dating, we decided to make the move together. Between the beautiful scenery and our amazing friends and family, the city quickly became home for us. Gabe proposed during our first backpacking trip in Washington, on Anderson Lake in Mt. Baker National Forest. He swam with the ring in a drybag across the lake to a beautiful island we’d spotted the day before —a risk that still scares and impresses me. Saying yes was the easiest decision I’ve ever made. We’re so thrilled to share the state we’ve come to love with our friends and family from all over the world. We can’t wait to see everyone, and we recognize the long journeys many of you are making to celebrate with us. Thank you for being part of our wedding and the rest of our lives. We love you all—let’s party!