05.24.26

It started with an easy conversation that led to Chad asking Katie out for pizza and beer. The night was light and fun, just enough to leave them both looking forward to a second date. That second date made things clear. A full day of snowmobiling in the Cascades, with long rides, a tumble off the sled, and a bonfire to end the night. As the saying goes, if you want to be someone’s lover, you have to get with their friends. Katie loved that Chad stuck with her and her friends the entire day. Not long after, what felt casual turned into something real. One night, camping at a hot spring under the stars, Chad said “I love you,” putting words to what they both already felt. Chad was drawn to Katie’s fun-loving, Midwestern charm, and how easily she stepped into his favorite adventures, from backpacking to bikepacking and beyond. For Katie, it was Chad’s humor, his steadiness in chaotic moments, and the way he consistently showed up. Whether digging out of snow while laughing, or quietly listening and turning small wishes into real memories, it’s been a lot of life and laughs. They’re excited for what’s next and thankful to celebrate with you all.