We met through mutual friends back in 2011 as freshman at different colleges in NYC and didn't think much of it. After crossing paths for next 7 years, Ardian finally asked for Oerta's number and then didn't use it for over two months until we ran into each other again.

Plans were made for a first date in FiDi, where both of us worked at the time. The morning of, Ardian asked to move the date an hour later because he found out he passed the New York State Bar and his firm wanted to take him out for drinks. Luckily for Ardian, Oerta gave him a pass and kept the date. We enjoyed Taco Tuesday at a local restaurant and walked through Brookfield Place and down to Battery Park.

Ardian worked with Oerta's friends to trick her into coming down to FiDi on a seemingly random weeknight. Oerta traveled into the city to meet with a friend after months of working from home. Meanwhile, Ardian was at the meeting spot by the Brookfield Marina waiting to surprise her! After a very confused Oerta was reassured her friends were not in fact meeting her, Ardian popped the question! Now, over three years after that fateful first date, Oerta and Ardian walked through Battery Park as a newly engaged couple.

After many trips, lots of adventures and countless Taco Tuesdays both out & at home, Oerta and Ardian are thrilled to be wed amongst their nearest and dearest! We’ve chosen Nicotra’s Ballroom on Staten Island for this reception as a nod to the time we have spent here building our relationship and the close proximity to both of our families. Please bring your dancing shoes and Albanian shamitë if you have them!