We're getting married!

On a sunny July weekend, Christian was hanging at the lake with some friends who told him of a girl he should contact. Little did Erin know that the next day, a text from across from the country would arrive. Christian, nervous but trying to appear confident, told Erin a little about himself and apologized in advanced for grammatical errors (he heard she was a teacher). The two had little idea it was the beginning of something special. They started to connect over the phone about big life questions, and little things like trivia and multiplication tables. When Erin prompted “what’s something you’ve wanted to ask me but have been nervous to,” Christian requested they meet in person. Erin was delighted by his pursuit and a few days later he hopped on a plane to California. The first weekend was a hit - they won a doubles tennis match, kayaked in Newport Beach, and Christian met Erin’s family. Near the end of the weekend, Christian confessed to having a slight crush on Erin, and she returned the favor. The young duo couldn't wait to see each other again. Erin and Christian connected again in Tennessee & North Carolina, and at the conclusion he read her a special note in front of a fire. He said, “I’d like this to be the last time I ask someone to be my girlfriend,” not knowing at the time whether his wish would come true. Christian played the piano and sang a song to Erin, who was on cloud 10. After praying for an opportunity to close the gap of long distance, Christian landed a remote job and moved to Loma Linda in April of 2021 to “chase the girl." You probably have some idea what happens next…

The day before Erin's birthday in September 2021, underneath pine trees and twinkling lights, Christian got down on one knee to ask for her hand in marriage. Erin said a heartfelt yes and the celebration began. Erin and Christian are elated to start a grand new adventure together. What better way to celebrate this momentous occasion with family and treasured friends than to be, once again, underneath forest trees and twinkling lights? They can’t wait to see you.