Thanks to a glitch in a dating app algorithm we matched despite the distance. On our first virtual date, we realized Southern California has at least two “Balboa’s” and were disappointed to learn there was 88 miles between us. The distance and the screen didn’t inhibit the warm connection and we arranged to meet somewhere in between. Nick suggested an activity like golfing or a walk at the park and Mari suggested axe throwing. Nick said, “axe throwing, did I say something that made you mad?” We shared another chuckle and agreed to lady’s choice! Early on, Mari felt Nick was a winner. When the two met, Mari found Nick had scouted out a parking spot for her next to his and the two set out on their first walk together. Despite Nick’s silly axe throwing chant, the attendant brought out a “special" throwing star. Nick assessed its safety yet reluctantly gave into Mari’s adventurous spirit. Although perceiving Mari as a bit dangerous at first, Nick again assessed the risk and over the next few weeks, Mari’s warrior exterior melted away and her pure love shined brightly like the north star on a clear dark night. They both knew early on that their love was “bashert”. Anyone want some crackers with that cheese?

Nick has many talents, and probably for the better, surprises aren’t one of them. When he asked Mari to go on a hike on July 8 and suggested she wear something cute, she knew to schedule an appointment to get her nails done earlier that day. Meanwhile, Nick recruited a close friend (Taylor) who is a photographer to help scout out a picturesque spot in Huntington Beach’s Central Park. On July 8, Nick led Mari into “The Secret Garden”. They took a few laps around the park as Nick was trying to remember the location where Taylor was hiding. When Mari realized what was happening, she somewhat sassily asked Nick if he wanted to wait and find Taylor ... Nick replied by getting down on one knee, saying he’s waited long enough. He asked her to officially be his family and when she exclaimed yes, he slipped a beautiful ring on her finger. As they embraced, Taylor snuck out of the bushes and captured the intended surprise which turned out to be a beautifully authentic moment. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you!