The book that started it all: From The Earth To The Moon, by Jules Verne. When we started dating Zach took to me to Jules Verne park in Tampa, gave me a copy of the book, and on the inside cover wrote “go on adventures with me?” Later, we named our angel dog after Jules Verne. Finally, he used the same book to write “Will you marry me?” while we were trying to see the rare Great Conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter, the Christmas star, through a telescope. From the Earth to the Moon and back, I love you so much! I am so excited to marry my best friend! Xoxo, Yan

I was very nervous and the ring was burning a hole in my pocket. The engagement, for those who know me, was very me, which is to say: improv forward and mixed with heavy symbolism. I picked the Great Conjunction because Saturn and Jupiter, in mythology, are a lot like me and Yannie. One is orderly and disciplined and the other is me. :) The night of, telescope did not work, or, perhaps I have no idea how to use a telescope. Either way, the telescope did not help with the nervousness. Luckily, it all worked out. The love of my life said yes. I am excited and happy and so many other things. Now, let’s celebrate!

“Nothing can astound an American. It has often been asserted that the word ‘impossible’ is not a French one. People have evidently been deceived by the dictionary. In America, all is easy, all is simple; and as for [engagements], they are overcome before they arise. Between [Zach’s] proposition and [Yannie saying ‘yes’] no true Yankee would have allowed even the semblance of a difficulty to be possible. A thing with them is no sooner said than done.” - From the Earth to the Moon (Extraordinary Voyages, #4)

“Alluding to the extent of Florida, a mere peninsula confined between two seas, they pretended that it could not sustain the shock of the [reception dance party], and that it would ‘burst up’ at the very first [dance off]. ‘Very well, let it bust up!’ replied the Floridians, with the brevity of the days of ancient Sparta.” - From the Earth to the Moon (Extraordinary Voyages, #4)

While we fully encourage everyone to bring their cameras/devices to document the day, we ask that you kindly turn off your devices during the ceremony. We will have a professional photographer and videographer documenting the day, so there will be plenty of photos and videos for us to share with you all! We adore your children, but in order to allow all guests, including parents, an evening of relaxation we have chosen for our wedding day to be an adult only occasion. We hope this advance notice means you are still able to share our big day and will enjoy the evening off! Covid precautions: The venue is mostly outdoors. We will provide masks and sanitizer for your comfort. If you feel sick or unwell, we will miss you terribly, but please do not attend. We understand.