“Celebrate our marriage!”

Whitney and Michael’s story began a little over 16 years ago when they met while studying abroad in Ireland. Whitney was recovering from a broken engagement, and she and Michael quickly found a spark between them. Although their romantic relationship didn’t take off then, they formed a bond that lasted beyond their time in Ireland. Back in the States, they continued to connect at Northern Illinois University, sharing drinks, karaoke nights, and live music. Whitney’s move to Colorado in 2012 didn’t diminish their friendship; instead, it gave Michael and their mutual friends an excuse to visit, bonding over snowboarding trips in the Rockies. Through the ups and downs of their respective relationships, they became even closer, realizing something crucial was missing in their lives: each other. By 2018, Whitney and Michael embraced the love that had been growing for years and became a couple. Their life in Colorado was filled with adventure, from snowboarding and hiking to attending concerts. Their shared passion for music led them to numerous shows across North America. Their love story took a significant step forward when they got engaged on the beaches of Portugal, committing to a lifetime of exploration together. On June 20th, 2024, exactly 15 years after they first met, Whitney and Michael held a private ceremony in the breathtaking mountains of Ouray, Colorado. They hiked 8.5 miles to an elevation of 11,200 feet to exchange their vows, symbolizing their journey and commitment. Now, they’re thrilled to celebrate with their closest friends and family in the mountains they cherish, sharing their love for adventure, music, dancing, and each other.