We're Getting Hitched!

6 Years ago, Melanie embarked on a cross-country journey to begin her graduate study at Portland State University in Oregon. Within a year she moved in with a new friend and PSU colleague (now Bridesmaid!), Sarah in Downtown Vancouver, WA. Meanwhile, Derek was studying Early Childhood Development at Clark College, just a couple of miles away from where Melanie lived. Although they lived quite close and even shared some mutual acquaintances, it was actually an online dating app (Bumble) that brought them together. Melanie was intrigued by Derek's interest in C.S. Lewis, and Derek was impressed by Melanie's reference to Spongebob Squarepants. The couple spent their first date at a local bar where they talked and laughed for nearly four hours. Since then, the two have grown closer every day and are looking forward to spending this weird, goofy, happy, messy life together.