We're getting married!

It began as a simple day of helping a friend shop for groomsmen outfits for their wedding. Russell will tell you "she almost walked right through me!" upon entering the bridal store, and Stephanie will agree; she was a woman on a mission! After a few outfits and some very impressive "modeling" from the guys, we settled on lunch at a local Hibachi restaurant, where Russell would first experience the now all too familiar unwillingly sharing of food. Later that evening, the same friends decided to have a backyard bonfire and Russell, being ever so sly, suggested "we need more girls, lets invite Stephanie from today." And thus began a night with card playing, bonfire burning, and a slightly too intense conversation about a dresser Stephanie really wanted, but didn't have a truck to pick it up. Little did she know, this was where Russell saw his golden opportunity... The very next day, Russell and Stephanie met up at their friends house and began their journey into the city to pick up aforementioned dresser. There was a lot of talking (mostly by Stephanie) and a meal at Steak n' Shake (later reflected as a terrible first date venue, they mostly stick with Whataburger dates now). Later, with the dresser strapped down in the back, they made it all the way back to Stephanie's apartment before she realized her apartment key was on her key-ring back at their friends house! With a lot of teasing from Russell and deep embarrassment from Stephanie (oh, and a tank of gas!) they drove to their friends house to grab the keys and all the way back to the apartment. Two and a half years later, they decided to take an international trip that would leave them with many wonderful memories...

Russell and Stephanie took a trip to one of the most amazing and historic places in the world, Greece! For those that do not know, Stephanie is of Greek decent on her Mothers side and was looking forward to exploring more of her heritage with Russell. Their trip included visiting Athens, Rhodes, Zakynthos and Corfu, with the last stop being the beautiful island of Santorini. It was their last full night in Greece and they were chatting on their private patio overlooking the moonlight Caldera and watching boats glide over the black water below. Of course, the conversation turned to Louie, their beloved Corgi-Aussie mix, and how determined Russell was to make sure Louie was a part of his family. When he had Stephanie giggling and retorting "you know how to get Louie!" with that playful twinkle in her eye, he knew that was the moment he was waiting for...and so was she! Russell will tell you he carried the ring around for two weeks trying to figure out the right time to ask; Stephanie will tell you she would have gladly carried it anytime! Either way, the wedding is on and we are looking forward to celebrating our special day with friends and family!

Louie is a adorable 5-year-old Corgi-Aussie mix that Stephanie adopted in 2015 (see MANY photos featuring Louie on this website). It is a running joke that the Sullivan's met Louie before meeting Stephanie, and that Louie "sealed the deal" on the relationship. They had to take Stephanie if they wanted Louie! Since meeting, Louie has become obsessed with Russell (Stephanie who??). He loves to sit in the yard while Russell spends hours working on his trucks, he impatiently waits by the front door every evening for Russell to come home (we have the photos to prove it), and he always goes to Russell when he's begging for food or attention. He's been a such a light in their relationship. When tensions rise in the house, Louie is always there with his big eyes, fluffy ears, and little drummy legs to bring a smile to their faces and laugh in the face of arguments. He loves to swim and play with Russell's nephews, but always makes time for cuddles and belly rubs! We're sad he will not be present on our day, but we're sure he'll be excited to finally be a Sullivan!