We're getting married

Ria & Kenny’s love story could have started in 2013 at Columbia University Teachers College, in the Social-Organizational Psychology program where they both got their Master’s Degrees at the same time. It could have started at the multiple Tony Robbins’ events they both attended. It even could have started just about anywhere in NJ, where both Ria & Kenny spent most of their childhoods! Instead, they met on Dec 3, 2016 in Brooklyn, NY when Kenny was invited by a mutual friend to a really special event in Ria’s home. She curated the guest list very carefully but Kenny was the only person coming that she didn’t know. Kenny, who only knew one person there, was excited to make new friends—little did he know he was going to meet his future wife. They locked eyes the moment he walked through her door. Ria, the always effervescent host, greeted him with warmth. Later that night, when they finally broke the ice, their connection was instant. Between Ria’s fierce Jewish maternal lineage & unique Japanese paternal influence & Kenny’s Native American Ecuadorian roots, they bonded over travel & culture. Together, they began their adventures of living in four different cities and traveling across the U.S. & the world on dozens of occasions. Kenny & Ria will be the first to tell anyone that a true love story is never one that is flawless. Their love story is one of patience, forgiveness, learning & a constant commitment to honoring their inner worlds, growth as individuals & their bond as a couple. Since that first meeting, Kenny & Ria have challenged the deepest parts of each other. They have loved, cried, laughed & roared harder with each other than anyone else & they have no plans on slowing down anytime soon. Kenny proposed on January 15, 2021 in Ensenada, Mexico on their 4 year anniversary. This was the start of the next part of their journey, one where they embrace how to love each other better & better one day at a time. Written By Laura, Ria’s BFF