We met at Occidental College, long before either of us imagined where life would take us. At first, we were just two swimmers sharing early morning practices, late-night study sessions, and way too many team snacks. What started as little moments—laughing on the pool deck, cheering each other on, complaining about workouts—slowly became something neither of us could ignore. Eventually, we became housemates with a group of friends, and that’s where everything changed. Somewhere between cooking dinners together, swapping playlists, and arguing over who cleans the bathroom, we found ourselves choosing each other in all the tiny ways that matter. Life just felt easier, lighter, and a lot more fun with the other person around. After graduating, we packed up our college world and moved to San Diego together. It was a big leap, but it felt completely right. San Diego became the place where our everyday routines turned into a shared life—morning coffees, beach walks, coaching swimmers, and laughing about everything and nothing. And then came the moment that turned our story into a forever one. On a perfect day at Pacific Beach, with the sun dipping low and the waves rolling in, Ryan asked the question that changed everything. It was simple, beautiful, and so completely us. From college teammates to housemates to soulmates, every step has felt like its own chapter. Now, we can’t wait to start the next one—surrounded by the people we love most—as we say “I do” in Italy.