We're getting married!

Growing up just 10 miles apart in Michigan, at rival high schools, Spring Lake and Grand Haven (Go Bucs!), we had always known of each other but had never spent time together. We shared many of the same friends and interests. However, Chad eventually relocated to Montana for college and later ventured to California for work. It was in the Golden State where our love story truly began... Claire moved out to San Clemente after college and Chad traveled there often for work. The first time he asked her to hang out, he claimed it was to "introduce her to friends," but to her surprise it turned out to be a double date with another couple! They continued to go on dates, and adventures together as friends. It was comforting to have a slice of Michigan all the way across the country in California. During a difficult time in Claire's life, Chad was a rock through it. She realized that he was an incredible support system and companion for her. His eyes were opened to a more fun and loving side of life when spent with Claire. They both realized they had gradually been falling for each other all along and officially started dating on April 3, 2020. Chad taught Claire how to mountain bike and fly fish. Claire taught Chad how to surf. We both loved to be outdoors; fishing, skiing, biking, hiking, camping, exploring. We now get to travel back to Michigan together, reconnecting with our roots and families as a couple. Since those early days, we've ventured into countless explorations, embarked on many travels, shared many laughs, cooked (and caught) some great meals and embraced numerous grand adventures together. Cheers to what's to come and continuing to living a life of love together!

Chad had been scheming the engagement for years, dating back to the very first boat ride in San Diego that Chad and Claire took on their boat, Lil' Revi (named after Claire's middle name, Revelle). Cruising along the cliffs of Point Loma with his arm around Claire, he knew it was here that he would one day ask Claire to be his wife. While Chad preferred an intimate setting, he understood that Claire's joy was magnified by the presence of loved ones. He ingeniously devised a plan to gather 45 friends and family on a sailboat in California. Knowing he wasn't the best at keeping surprises, Chad concocted an elaborate ruse in the months leading up to the proposal. In order to keep the proposal a secret, he fabricated a story about building a floating restaurant and securing reservations to this exclusive spot for an afternoon during lunch. Chad told Claire to dress up, and they set out on Lil' Revi, supposedly bound for this non-existent restaurant with the reservations that did not exist. When they reached the designated location, Chad pretended to be disappointed, confessing he had the wrong weekend. Claire, always one to make the best of any situation, suggested anchoring at their favorite spot (which Chad had seen coming). It was there that Chad got down on his knee and asked Claire to marry him. It just so happened to be perfectly timed with the sailboat full of their loved ones who erupted in cheers. The easiest yes!

We are so excited to celebrate all of Claire and Chad's favorite things with all of our favorite people! Friends, family, travel, adventure with a hint of stepping out of one's comfort zone, and LOVE on an island off an island. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions and we are more than happy to help, whether that is about how to get there, where to stay, what to do or anything in between. While we sincerely value your role in our lives, we completely understand that attending a destination wedding can be a big commitment. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Please know that there's absolutely no pressure and no hard feelings. Your well-being and comfort are our top priorities. If the journey is too challenging or if circumstances don't allow, we fully support your decision.

From Chad & Claire