How we met … Our story started the old-fashioned way… at a bar. It was Memorial Weekend and Justin had just come from an all day "networking" event called Sing Dance Crawl. He wanted to show his visiting friend, the Best Man Ernie, a good time—so naturally, they hit up Pacific Beach (aka PB). Meanwhile, Michaela had her own friend in town (shoutout to Bridget Cundelan!), and was trying to show her a good time—also in PB. Great minds think alike, right? Justin and Michaela got to chatting at a bar called Backyard and realized they had a lot in common. Like, they shared a love for country music, they both grew up skiing, and even attended UC Santa Barbara at the same time (Justin one year younger than Michaela rawr!). After that night, the two decided to go on a few dates; which included a country concert at Moonshine Beach where they danced the night away and grabbing $3 Sculpin beers at Duck Dive on a Tuesday (iykyk). They kept getting to know each other over that summer. However, Michaela made Justin work for it (as she should). He made multiple attempts to win her over. Justin at one point thought about giving up. But he knew how special she was so he continued to persevere, eventually winning the heart of Michaela. From there, it was off to the races. They explored San Diego together—concerts, hikes, beach days, and all the SD nightlife in between. From these early days, it was clear that they had found an adventure partner in each other. But little did they know, it was only the beginning... Adulting … After many fun years in Pacific Beach, Justin and Michaela decided it was time to move-in together and start adulting. So naturally they moved all the way to… Little Italy! Michaela still needed to be “in the fun” according to Justin. The two spent many nights dining at amazing restaurants and going on countless of Justin’s “old man walks” along the water. After living in Little Italy for a year and a half, it was time to adult once again. Justin and Michaela bought their first house together in 2022. They had help from Michaela’s dad, Keith, in renovating it. Keith truly turned their new house into a beautiful home. But their adulting adventures weren’t over just yet. After months of Michaela giving Justin the puppy-eyes, begging for a dog, Benji finally came into their lives. And if you know Michaela and Justin, you know how much they adore their golden retriever fur baby. So, when Justin popped the question in May 2024, of course Benji had to be there, joining in the celebration with their nearest and dearest family and friends! Now, Justin and Michaela’s engagement is just one more unforgettable moment in a lifetime of memories! They have shared countless adventures together, both big and small. From skiing in the Aspen mountains to wine tasting in the Italian hills of Tuscany; they have built a life filled with laughter and love. And now, after all this time, they are beyond excited to be going on this next adventure together. They can’t wait to celebrate with you all on their wedding day and continue writing their story!