Like many millennials, we met via the dating app Hinge. Kim skeptically agreed to Nick's suggestion of a video chat (aka video screening call). As soon as Nick suggested this, Kim immediately thought “ok I’ll talk to this guy for 5 minutes and never again” so she showed to the call in her usual attire (hair up, oversized hoodie, and no make up). Midway through the call, both Kim and Nick saw potential due to the quality of the conversation, love of dogs, and shared experiences of living abroad (Kim immediately felt like she should have put at least a little effort and less attitude into this call). Ten minutes into the call, Nick pretended he had plans and scheduled a memorable first date that featured a wine bar, Georgian cuisine (the country, not the state), and bar games. Early on, Kim was amused by Nick's love of ultimate frisbee and protein (rumor has it the couple is considering a protein shake as one of the signature cocktails), and Nick was intrigued by shared values including integrity, family, and adventure. Amidst exploring speakeasies, Michelin’s Bib Gourmand establishments, wineries, and our first weekend trip to Annapolis, we fell in love. We soon grew tired of the 35 minute to hour long drive to see each other, and started to discuss living together. While Nick’s 495 square foot apartment was compelling, we had to keep our priorities in mind: space and a view for Kim’s Peloton. In the bravest act known to any Marylander, Nick crossed the river to Virginia to move with Kim to beautiful Shirlington, VA. We now have enough space for a healthier dog to dog-bed ratio (2 to 5) and we are steps away from a bike path with several breweries.

In April 2025, we went on a two-week trip to Malaysia to visit Kim’s parents and Nick decided that would be THE place to propose. During the first week, Nick, Kim, and her parents embarked on a three-day trip to Langkawi island, which was a picture-perfect location for a sunset proposal. Since Kim had planned the entire trip while Nick was a “passenger prince”, she thought he would have to “wing it” and figure out a proposal spot, but little did she know, Nick had reached out to her parents several weeks prior to scout locations. The evening of the planned night, a storm ruined the sunset proposal, so the resort relocated the decor inside the couple’s room while Kim’s parents hid in the bathtub to take photos and capture the moment.

For the wedding, Nick and Kim couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our love than an adventure with close friends and family in Costa Rica. As they say in Costa Rica, “pura vida,” let’s enjoy the pure life!