R + S

We met in August 2014 at University of the Pacific's Doctor of Physical Therapy orientation. What developed over the fall semester was an easy, gradual friendship but it wasn't until the beginning of spring semester that we became more than friends. It surprised us both when our instant connection immediately evolved into something deeper. After a few whirlwind weeks of balancing studies with new romance, Berto asked Simone to be his girlfriend at their favorite local wine bar.

After dropping multiple hints that 2020 was going to be a BIG year and showing an incredible talent for secret keeping under interrogation, Berto proposed on October 3rd overlooking the ocean near Asilomar State Beach. Simone was too busy crying to say yes but finally blurted out “Are you serious!? Of course!”. It was just the two of us on a private outlook, sharing our love & excitement in the sunshine with sounds of the waves in the background. After soaking it all in, we were able to celebrate in person with surprise visits from family & friends as well as many virtual celebrations and retellings of the proposal with our non-local loved ones.

In the last six years, we have been through it all: graduating Doctor of Physical Therapy school and passing our licensure boards, beginning new careers, navigating a multi-year long distance relationship, moving into our first apartment together, adopting a rescue kitty, and working the uncertain healthcare frontline during the pandemic. Our relationship brings us strength, comfort, constant fun and endless love. We know if we can survive 2020 we can survive anything, including planning a wedding and our future married life. We cannot wait to celebrate with our incredible families & friends, the countdown starts now!