One Sunday morning in February 2020, Brandon was biking back from his shift at the hospital when he found Brittany completing a post-run stretch outside their apartment. He was already 7 days into his very busy Cardiology rotation and word had spread among the residents that the military-cut, always-clean-shaven Brandon Hassid had started to grow a beard (note: peach fuzz). Brittany took notice of her soon-to-be intern / co-resident and the two agreed for beer and smores later that night… along with their 8 other residents.


After a movie dinner, a few happy hours, and one park run later, Brittany and Brandon finally admitted their feelings for each other. This came at the *encouragement* of their friends who were already aware of the chemistry long beforehand and were growing impatient. As Gabe (their officiant) would say, “I knew something was going on before [they] even knew.”


But as fate would have it – COVID-19 took over and the world shut down just one day after their first kiss. Thus began their start as an “outdoorsy” couple with a penchant for elaborate home cooking. With the end of the academic year approaching, Brittany made the decision to cancel her plans to move to Los Angeles after residency. Brittany felt like Brandon was “someone very special” and “worth staying for.” -- She signed a contract to stay on at UC Davis that same month.


The rest you probably already know.


Brittany and Brandon spent the next two years exploring where COVID would allow them: from Mendocino, Carmel, and Tahoe to Utah, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Hawaii, and New Orleans. Brandon taught Brittany everything there is to know about being outside; more specifically, how to get used to not showering for 9 days straight and living off dehydrated meals. Brittany introduced Brandon to omakase, traveling internationally, and adopting a skin care routine. Together, they learned how to be (somewhat) less competitive/stubborn and to set aside “no bones” days. While they’ve made some adaptations (for the better) and moved to the Big Apple, some things have not changed: You’ll still find them on the couch watching Ted Lasso over a bowl of their favorite Yume gelato most nights.

On October 29, 2022, Brandon took Brittany to Yosemite (their favorite national park) for a fall colors weekend. Brittany was looking forward to their planned picnic at Sentinel Dome, so naturally, she was racing to the top. After a restroom break (read: pee behind the bushes) at Glacier Point, Brandon decided to seize the opportunity and suggested a Half Dome photo using his brand new tripod. While Brittany thought they were posing for the self timer, Brandon bent the knee with the MOST BEAUTIFUL ring in all the lands. Tears were shared followed by a happy dance (on Brittany’s part). Don’t worry, they still made it to their picnic at Sentinel Dome! It was a perfect lunch, complete with Prosecco and personalized enamel mugs thanks to Brandon. The evening was spent doing what they always do after a hike: burgers, beer, and an early bedtime.

As with any BB&BH gathering, one is sure to find an abundance of excellent food and even better company. Brittany and Brandon are incredibly happy, grateful, and blessed to be able to share their special day with all of you!