Austin and I met how all millennials meet these days, on the internet. We met on an online dating site. We decided to try to get together for a first date as soon as possible, which with my schedule as a nurse, happened to be a Thursday ( Valentine's Day). We, like any rational people, decided to go on a first date on Valentine's Day. Austin's and my personal recollections of how that first date went differ greatly. But what I can confirm is that on that date I learned Austin gets hangry, he did not kiss me goodnight, and he did not secure a second date.... Somehow we managed to get here , about to be married, though.

Austin and I moved in together after the pandemic and combined our " families", to have " the boys" ( Sammy and Duke). Who coexisted together well, but occasionally you would be able to find them in a secret snuggle. Some of our favorite things to do as a couple include trying new restaurants, fun happy hour spots, pool days accompanied by some white claws, and to travel. Some of the places we have traveled together so far include: California, Mexico, The Bahamas, Sedona, New Orleans, London, and Paris.

After 3 1/2 years Austin FINALLY asked me to marry him on Pittsburgh's light up night after fireworks. That story sounds a lot more romantic than how it actually took place so we are sticking with it. In fall of 2022 we also found out we were expecting a little boy. Alden Walton Blake joined the fam on July 5th 2023 ( his grandma Walton's Birthday!). He is the perfect addition to the family and we fall in love with him more and more each day! We are super excited for him to be a part of our special day. Someone who will not be a part of our special day, is our sweet Sammy dog. We lost him after a long battle of Lymphoma and we were all extremely heart broken; including Dukers who misses his big brother. We know he sent us our sweet baby boy and will be there with us in spirit on our special day!

As far as our wedding is concerned, Austin is very involved and has practically planned out his entire vision and can't wait to be the center of attention. We decided to get married in Pittsburgh ( my home town) because it's still a close and drivable location for both our friends and families. We decided we wanted to keep our special day intimate with only close friends and family so that we are able to really enjoy everyone ! We chose the Sheraton for our ceremony and reception venue because of its beautiful riverfront and city views. Also, the location is great for our out-of-towners who decide they want to experience some of what the burgh has to offer! We are looking forward to celebrating with you! By the way, if you have gotten this far and haven't realized yet Austin being super involved and excited about all the attention was complete sarcasm, it was.

Lots of Love,

Amanda & Austin ( The future Blake's)