We actually met online on one of those dreaded dating websites with awkward people and creeps. Mark messaged: "You and your dog are really cute"... since he mentioned her dog, she wrote back. It was Kelsey's 30th first date, and Mark's first from online dating. We met outside the Starbucks in Old Town Fort Collins, which was closed by the way, on a cold night. Mark showed up 30 minutes early, as per usual, and waited in the cold. We walked around Old Town admiring the lights and making small talk before making our way to dinner. After that there was a second, third, fourth, and fifth date. Between Kelsey studying and writing papers for graduate school, and Mark moving out of his house and working at a breakfast place too many hours a week, we saw each other more and more and fell deeper in like, and then in love. It was real when our dogs didn't get along, and we made it work anyway. Note: they now get a long... sort of. So began our story that has continued. Though it hasn't been long since we first met and began dating, it feels like a lifetime and yet not enough time.

We were actually on the East Coast for Mark's sister Kara's wedding. There is a lighthouse in Maine called "Nubble Light House" that Kelsey fell in love with on the first visit out East. It has become a destination for us because the views are always amazing, even in crummy weather. Mark's whole plan hinged on Kelsey needing to go to the bathroom when we arrived...which of course happened. While Kelsey was in the bathroom, Mark found a couple to capture the proposal. Kelsey, still oblivious, came out and Mark stated that he found someone to take a photo. After one shot, Mark turned and got down on one knee and asked. Kelsey was so surprised and excited, as well as sleep deprived! The ring is one that Mark worked with a jeweler to design, using diamonds from his great great grandmother. To add to the surprise, the night before Mark asked for a photo of a ring that Kelsey's grandmother had that she loved so he could add it to his "designs Kelsey likes book", leaving Kelsey wondering... And yes, in case you're wondering, Mark got Kara's blessing before asking Kelsey as not to ruin her wedding week.

When we moved in together, we found that we had a lot of STUFF, and ended up with almost everything we needed for our kitchen (score). However, this means that rather than gifts, we would rather put money toward a honeymoon adventure! Also, since this is "destination", hauling gifts home will be hard. If you would like to give, you can donate to our "honeymoon fund" via the website (but they keep 2.5%) or you can do so at the wedding/via mail. Please know, your presence is enough!