Justin and Kirsten met on the first day of grad school orientation at UCI in September 2017 where they bonded over their loves of chemistry (inorganic and organic) and football (The Lions and The Eagles, respectively). They then became close friends through classes, teaching, grading, bonfires at the beach and many grocery trips.

Justin and Kirsten went on their first date in December of 2018 to the Olive Garden (before they learned they were lactose intolerant) and the rest is history!

Justin and Kirsten moved in together after surviving COVID lockdown in November of 2020. This apartment will always be a special place with both amazing and stinky memories (if you know you know)

Justin and Kirsten were on the annual Wedal Family Vacation in the Summer of 2024. They had decided on upstate Wisconsin/Minnesota to visit Lake Superior. This was a common summer vacation spot for Justin growing up and this was Kirsten's first trip "up north". They went on a short hike together and in front of a beautiful waterfall Justin popped the question. This will always be on of their favorite vacations together!