We met at the place we find ourselves most days, our local beach. Jess was 16 and on a Covid break from high school, and Mason had just graduated early at 17 and was working construction. While the world was standing still, our lives were just beginning. That summer our love grew as we spent endless days at the beach and soaking up the sun. Near the end of summer, Mason joined his family on a sailing trip to Hawaii. What was supposed to be a few months turned into 6 weeks at sea before turning back toward San Diego. When Mason left, we both knew it was something real. And when he came back, our connection only deepened. Six years later, we’re getting married!

On October 23, 2025, we woke up before dawn and drove up to Santa Barbara to spend the weekend surfing. We caught some waves at Rincon and got a few good rides before grabbing breakfast at one of our new favorite spots. Rincon has always held countless memories and special moments for the two of us, so starting the day there felt extra meaningful. After breakfast, we headed to a place Jess had found called Douglas Family Preserve, supposedly to let Ripper, our dog, burn off some energy before heading to camp. We pulled off along the trail to take some photos, and as Jess was throwing a stick for Ripper, she turned around to find Mason on one knee asking her to be his person forever. She said yes a little too early, before he could even finish asking. Jumping with joy we kept exploring through the park on what must have been one of Santa Barbara’s most beautiful days. We watched dolphins leap and play in the sea below the bluffs. The rest of the day was filled with smiles and awe. Ripper was along for every moment as we ended the evening at our beach campsite. We surfed until sunset and found the most amazing shell, a perfect symbol of the day we’ll never forget.