This is a story about love, opportunity and new beginnings. We hope you enjoy. Thirteen years and 2 Stanley Cups ago, Washington D.C.’s 2 biggest Penguins fans were connected by the best man, Derek Kinzel, over a hockey game in Arlington, Virginia. One key thing Derek forgot to tell Kristi was that Patrick had accepted a job in San Francisco and would be leaving in 2 weeks. The rest is their story… Despite only knowing each other for a few weeks, the two remained friends and occasionally texted over the Penguin’s playoff run to the Cup or to Monday morning quarterback a Steelers’ blunder. Their lives continued in different directions, including Patrick leaving California to return East and Kristi taking a bet on a start-up in SoCal, yet their love for Black and Gold remained constant. As their lives progressed, they were certain their paths wouldn’t cross again. That is, however, until the Polar Vortex of 2018 hit. After a few years back East, the frigid Pennsylvania air forced Patrick to migrate West again. Kristi had been out West for a little while now. As luck would have it, Derek would strike again. He told Kristi, “You need to go on the dating app Yinzers,” which she immediately tried to download. To her surprise, the dating app wasn’t real. Disappointed, she thought, “I will never meet anyone who can wave a terrible towel like me.” Days after this thought crossed her mind, Patrick would show up back in California and reconnect with her over some fine Cuban cuisine, compliments of Derek. Patrick would go on to spend much of his free time with Kristi. Despite spending all this time together, Kristi still wondered if they were an “item.” Memorial Day of that year eased any of her concerns. Patrick took Kristi to meet his extended family in Simi Valley. His 7-year-old cousin innocently said, “You guys are going to get married.” From that moment on, everything felt right, except Riley (the family dog) still had yet to make it to CA and check out this man for herself. Riley arrived in a Mercedes Sprinter van. Shortly after her arrival, Patrick and Riley were joined at the hip. Not only did they share their love for Kristi, but they also shared their love for Costco chickens on several occasions (including one Patrick might have left on the counter). Over the course of many weekends in Long Beach, Newport Beach and the mountains of California, the 3 formed a strong family bond. Now, after a couple of coasts and over a decade after first meeting, Kristi and Patrick are getting married where they should be. Their wedding will take place in the majesty of the Pennsylvania backcountry in the presence of their friends, family (present and in spirit) and loved ones. We appreciate the love and support you have shown us both over the years. We look forward to celebrating with you!