Erik and Shannon met serendipitously on the evening of April 3rd, 2015 at a party in Arlington, VA. Originally Erik was supposed to be going on a date with someone else and Shannon was planning to make the smart decision to go to bed after work. The universe had a different plan. Erik’s first glimpse of Shannon came from across the room as she walked through the front door, fashionably late per usual. She immediately caught his eye, but alas he had important things to finish at the beer pong table. It wasn’t until later in the night when Erik decided to make his move. The ping pong ball had slipped past him and ended up at Shannon’s feet. He leaned over, picked it up, brought it towards her face and said, “Will you blow on my ball for good luck?” Shannon smirked and thought, “wow, not only is he handsome but he is also kind of funny!” Their romance began to bud that night as they talked and flirted into the wee hours of the morning until Shannon finally realized she had to get up for work in 2 hours. (She says it was worth it.) They went on their first official date a few days later where Erik romanced Shannon with a lovely evening ferry ride into the National Harbor for dinner and a Ferris wheel ride, complete with first date kiss overlooking DC at the top! The rest is history and the two have spent the last few years enjoying life together! They are so excited for their next journey into marriage and can't wait to celebrate with all their loved ones!