When we first met, Chris and I quickly bonded over our mutual passion for health and wellness, the arts, and adventure! I knew Chris was somebody I needed in my life after he planned a date filled with the above!
We began the date competing together in the Spartan Race. What made it hilarious is that the entire event took place in the rain. What was already a difficult feat, turned into an almost comedic one! I, having never done a Spartan race before, made the decision to wear laceless running shoes. Well...I couldn't keep my shoes on to save my life as they kept getting caught in the mud. Chris being the amazing gentleman he is, gave me his shoes and went barefoot for much of the race! The combination of running up muddy mountains and sliding down them (literally) side by side in the rain makes it one of my fondest memories with Chris yet!
After a quick clean up, Chris took me to see one of my favorite shows in Los Angeles, "Cages" (I highly recommend it if you have not seen it yet!). The show moved me to tears and I was moved that Chris took me to see something he knew I would like. After a romantic dinner to follow, Chris won my heart. The rest is history!
-Lauren
Ringing in the New Year officially as girlfriend and boyfriend!
March 2020, the pandemic hit and lockdown orders were put into place. I was in grad school and the program went fully remote. Chris had to stop teaching in person and transition his training to mostly zoom classes. We had only been dating 5 months when suddenly we were around each other 24/7. While the pandemic either made or broke couples, it definitely made us. We supported one another, learned we will always play... even in the worst of times, and grew deeper in fondness and respect.
This picture was taken with a 360 camera. I was experimenting with a technique for one of my classes and Chris was happy to be my test subject! It is one of the many fun memories we have during the stay at home orders.
-Lauren
Looking back through all our photos, I realize most all our favorite memories are of us spending time in the wilderness. Be it the trees of Sequoia, the mountains of Yosemite, the many day hikes we take up and down California, the turquoise water of the Florida Keys, or in Big Sur where the redwoods meet the sea.
I'm so happy to have found someone I can share this passion with. Seeking out new landscapes and our love for adventure will forever be a part of our future.
-Chris
Lauren loved Death Valley when she went there on a scouting trip for her thesis. In celebration of its completion, I surprised her with a getaway to revisit one of her favorite spots! This is a cool shot we took at the Artists Palette.
-Chris
Relaxing and detoxing in the Florida Keys post graduation!
One of the multiple trips we have taken to Yosemite National Park! We are sitting at the base of Yosemite Falls. This park is one of our favorites as we enjoy the beautiful waterfalls, the rigorous hiking, and the grandness of the valley.
We're engaged!
For the proposal I secretly got together my family and Lauren's, and had them meet the night before - staying at the same hotel. The morning of the proposal, Lauren thought we were just going to take some pictures before having brunch in Malibu. I took her to one of our favorite spots, Point Dume, a beautiful cliff overlooking the ocean. I had arranged for our families to be at the top, waiting to surprise Lauren. When we approached the proposal spot, Lauren was shocked to see family. I quickly launched into my proposal as it was dawning on her what might be happening. Thankfully she said yes and tearfully gave me the biggest hug and kiss.... without even looking at the ring!
The engagement weekend was filled with great meals, a fun trip to Universal and beach time! We are so grateful both our families could be there to share in the joy and celebrate.
-Chris
We are so excited for October and to get to share this most special day with all of you!