we're getting married!

**The year was 2008** That’s when Kalena and Brendan first passed each other in the halls of Illahee Middle School. They were just kids then, but little did Kalena know — she’d never forget the sight of him: skateboard strapped to a brown plaid Element backpack, matching brown LRG jacket, and hair grown long to his shoulders. In 2012, now in high school, mutual friends tried to play matchmaker, but the timing wasn’t quite right… yet. Over the years, their paths crossed now and then — sketchy late nights at the tide flats, a run-in at the A$AP Mob concert — just enough to stay in each other’s orbit. Fast forward to March 2018. Kalena was visiting friends at her old college, Western Washington University — the same weekend Brendan happened to be doing the same. As fate would have it, Kalena’s friend Chase lived with Brendan’s friend Marcus. A spontaneous hangout turned into games of beer pong, shots of Rémy Martin, and plenty of ribs. Brendan noticed Kalena right away and decided to shoot his shot… but it was a clear airball. They wouldn't see each other again until June. Kalena was hanging out with friends when she got invited to a low-key get-together. It just so happened to be at Brendan’s place — his parents were out of town. When Brendan heard Kalena was coming, he was hesitant, considering she'd basically ghosted him, but he let it slide. Thank God he did — because from that night on, the two have been completely inseparable. Kalena and Brendan quickly bonded over their shared love of animals — bald eagles, orca whales, and wolves alike. From early morning drives to the mountains to catch the sunrise, to late nights dancing at the club, they did everything together. In the early days of their relationship, they even navigated the joys (and challenges) of dating while still living at home with their parents — sneaking in moments of privacy, laughter, and connection wherever they could. Through it all, their bond only grew stronger. As their relationship continued to grow, so did their dreams. In 2022, Kalena and Brendan reached a major milestone: they purchased their very first (and brand new) condo together. Soon after, Brendan knew it was time to pop the question — and he knew exactly how Kalena would want it: simple, meaningful, and at home. Brendan got down on one knee and asked Kalena to spend forever with him in a place they made their own — filled with love, laughter, and way too many plants. But it wasn’t long before they realized they were ready for something more. Just 2 years later, they took another big leap and purchased their first (also brand new) house. It was more than just a home — it was the start of their next chapter. From designing their space together to hosting friends and family, every step brought them closer to the life they had always imagined. When they’re not busy planning a wedding, Kalena and Brendan love soaking up the simple joys of life together. These days, you’ll often find them enjoying their home — whether it’s hosting friends for a backyard kickback, perfecting their skills on the Blackstone and pizza oven, or just chillin on the couch with another rewatch of Game of Thrones. As Kalena and Brendan prepare to say “I do,” their hearts are full of excitement for the future. After the wedding, they look forward to settling even more into the home they've built together. Their next big adventure? Starting a family. They can’t wait to raise children in the home they've poured so much care into, surrounded by the values, laughter, and traditions they've shared from the start. From backyard barbecues and bedtime stories to road trips and family vacations, they’re excited to build a life rooted in love.