It all began in 2015 at North High School, where fate (and a shared Civics class) brought us together. Though we were just two teenagers then, something about sitting near each other sparked a connection that would shape the next decade of our lives. Our first date was at the nearby Starbucks. Max, knowing Alondra's quiet nature, brought an ice breaker: a drawing game called Exquisite Corpse, where we took turns doodling on the same piece of paper. It was a simple moment that started the beginning of their journey together. Even as life took us in different directions for college, we stayed close. Max always made the effort to visit Alondra, biking and taking the bus just to spend a few hours together. We kept growing together after high school and throughout college, cheering each other on through every milestone. From walking the graduation stage to moving into our first apartment, adopting our sweet dog, and learning what it means to build a life side by side. We’ve shared every chapter. After 10 years of laughter, growth, we decided together in March 2025 that it was time to start our next big adventure: getting married.

Wanting the proposal to be both meaningful and a surprise, Max thought of one of Alondra’s favorite places, museums. He suggested a visit to the Kirkland, knowing how much she loves exploring museums and it was one she had not yet visited. Stopping on their way, Max stopped Alondra and asked the question he had been holding close to his heart. Completely surprised, Alondra said yes without hesitation. What began as a simple walk quickly transformed into one of the most exciting and unforgettable moments of their journey, a perfect start to their next chapter together.