Ryan and I met while working in El Paso. The first time we ever spoke was when he came to my office to ask for my computer's serial number. In true Gianna fashion, I was running late to a meeting, so I was annoyed about the hold up. Admittedly, I thought he was very handsome, but didn't think anything of it - I just lowkey hoped I'd see him around. A few months after our first interaction, I went on a work TDY to Tucson. While in Arizona, Ryan messaged me on Signal, asking how to deal with an issue at work. Our conversation soon segued into us talking about craft cocktails and ended with us deciding to meet up for a beer and lunch when I got back into town. We met at a small brewery just outside of El Paso and hit it off- I knew immediately that we shared a unique and familiar connection. Apparently, the feeling was mutual and we ended up taking home a 6-week old puppy--who has since grown into a stubborn goofball--on our first date! After a few weeks of "talking", we officially started dating. And as you can say, the rest was history. Every minute with Ryan is an adventure. From our very first conversation, I was intrigued by his dynamic life-story and our shared niche interests (to include having the same favorite movies). Whether we're eating dozens of oysters, scream-singing Hawthorne Heights, or just sitting in the backyard chatting, it's always a cherished moment. I'm so lucky I get to marry the most spectacular person I've ever known, and I can't wait to celebrate with all of our family and friends!

El Paso brought Gianna and I together in a way that felt like the universe had been plotting it all along. Our first date wasn’t some ordinary day out—it was the start of our adventure as a family. We found ourselves at Three Missions Brewery, just laughing and learning about each other, when we spotted him—a tiny six-week-old puppy, all alone and bloated but heartbreakingly sweet. Without even having to say it out loud, we both knew we weren’t leaving without him. We named him Mac, after Mac Miller, who had already meant so much to us. Some part of the universe had nudged us into that moment, which, looking back, was absolutely perfect. That day set the tone for everything that followed. We chose each other and chose love, even when it wasn’t part of the original plan. Since then, I've made sure Gianna knows how loved she is every day—not just with words, but in the little things that stitch our life together. She’s my best friend, my home, my everything. Mac grew along with us, a goofy, loyal, snack-stealing reminder of the day we decided, without hesitation, that we were in this together. He's been right there through long workdays, time apart, a move to North Carolina, and all the unknowns, a piece of the heart we’re building. We can't wait to celebrate our wedding with all of you, surrounded by the love that started with a puppy, a few beers, and a quiet promise to never take a single day for granted. Every day G- I love you, pretty girl. I'm so happy I get to be a part of your life!