Friday, October 16th

Where It All Began Elizabeth and Nic first met during their second year at San José State University, in the way many college stories begin: through mutual friends, shared spaces, and evenings spent gathered in an apartment with music playing in the background. One night, Nic came by to spend time with friends in Elizabeth’s apartment and put on a song he was especially fond of. Elizabeth casually mentioned that she didn’t like it. Nic was surprised, not because of her opinion, but because of how effortlessly and honestly she said it. There was something about her confidence and ease that stayed with him. Life carried on, and the two did not cross paths again until two years later, when Nic spotted Elizabeth during a local bar crawl. They began talking while she stood in line with friends, and before she left, Nic called out to ask for her number. They stayed in touch here and there at first, until one small but meaningful moment changed everything: Nic was the first person to wish Elizabeth a happy 21st birthday. It was a simple gesture, but a thoughtful one, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. The Proposal Nine years later, Nic began planning a proposal that reflected the quiet thoughtfulness Elizabeth had always loved about him. A few months in advance, he casually asked her to take a Friday off work. Naturally, Elizabeth was a little suspicious, but she agreed without asking too many questions. Then, about a week before, Nic mentioned that he had tickets to a concert on the Wednesday night before their trip. The timing seemed a little unusual, but Elizabeth assumed that if a proposal was coming, it would happen sometime over the weekend. On the day of the “concert,” Elizabeth’s nail appointment ran late, leaving her rushing home to get ready. To her surprise, Nic was already home from work and completely ready. Under normal circumstances, he might have been a little anxious about running behind, but that evening he was remarkably calm, even making her a drink while she finished getting ready. When she apologized, he reassured her that they were working on being nicer to each other in rushed moments like this, so it was all good... (very smooth, Nic). Later, he admitted that while Elizabeth was getting ready, he had actually been outside pacing nervously by the front door. Nic drove them toward the Chabot Space and Science Center in the Oakland Redwoods, one of their favorite local hiking spots. But when they arrived, he led her away from the event center and into the Redwood Grove. Then Elizabeth began to hear their song, I Love You by Alex Clare, playing softly in the background. She noticed a photographer nearby, and just ahead, tucked among the redwoods, was a beautifully arranged surprise: flowers, champagne, a picnic, and the words MARRY ME waiting for them beneath the trees. Nic shared a heartfelt speech, got down on one knee, and asked Elizabeth to marry him. The celebration continued with a weekend in Lake Tahoe, one of their favorite places, filled with hiking, a spa day, and a special dinner at Elizabeth’s favorite steakhouse. It was thoughtful, personal, and unforgettable — the perfect beginning to their next chapter. Looking Ahead Now, Elizabeth and Nic are so happy to celebrate this next chapter surrounded by the people they love most. They look forward to welcoming friends and family to St. Helena for a weekend in wine country, filled with beautiful scenery, great food and wine, and meaningful time together. Whether you are coming from near or far, thank you for being here and for sharing in this special moment. Your love and support mean so much, and they are truly grateful to celebrate this milestone with you. 💛