Lauren messaged Zach on bumble, originally as friends! Their friendship blossomed rather quickly, but Lauren was quick to remind Zach that they were NOT dating. After only a few more weeks, Lauren ate her words after realizing she did in fact want to date Zach and he immediately responded that he felt the same way. Zach told Lauren he couldn’t stop smiling for the rest of the day.
Less than 6 months into their relationship, Zach and Lauren had to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic in Hawaii. Having to hop between Lauren’s 200 square foot studio apartment and the house Zach shared with 3 other roommates and a less than amicable landlord was less than ideal, but the couple both look back on that time fondly because of the memories they were able to make together.
In March of 2021, Zach and Lauren moved in together into a one bedroom apartment in Downtown Portland. They’ve been there for over a year now and absolutely love the little home they’ve made for themselves in the city and frequent many quirky Portland fun spots such as Everyday Music, McMenamins, and various thrift stores. In January of 2022 they adopted Koa, their 10 year old pup from the humane society, and have been a happy family of 3 since.
On the day of the proposal, Zach handed Lauren a disposable mask to use as a blindfold and drove her to the Pittock Mansion that overlooks Portland, Oregon. Zach took Lauren on a beautiful walk all around the property. Little did she know that her best friend and Maid of Honor Carolyne would be hiding in the bushes during the proposal to capture the moment for them perfectly. She had even met Zach beforehand to mark the proposal spot with flowers for the perfect shot! Zach had planned the perfect day and easily the quickest yes that Lauren ever had answered!
Zach and Lauren had their sights set on a McMenamins wedding before they even got engaged. The PNW historic hotel chain means a lot to the couple, as it was the first thing they did to get out of the house post pandemic. They are excited to share the spunkiness and fun of McMenamins with family and friends during their wedding at the Kennedy School location and can’t wait for you to be there!