Chris and Jessie first met in Gainesville, FL in February 2014, and discovered on only their first date a mutual connection: Vero Beach, FL. Chris spent his childhood vacationing in this small beach town, and Jessie and her parents have lived there since Jessie was in middle school. Because of this, the decision to get married in Vero Beach was an easy one!

After meeting, Chris and Jessie soon bonded over their love of good food and drink, and of course college sports (although to this day they still argue over who the real "Carolina" is!). Fortunately, their time as graduate students at the University of Florida allowed them to partake in all of these activities, and to spend that time with many of their closest friends. They have also enjoyed traveling around the country, and spoiling their "child", Harvin the adorable yellow lab dog.

In May 2016, Chris planned a seemingly normal day-trip to one of their favorite local destinations, Cedar Key, FL. This small fishing town on the Gulf Coast was where Chris surprised Jessie with an engagement ring!

After both receiving their Ph.D.s later in 2016 (yes, they are a very nerdy couple!), they decided to move clear across the country to Washington state. Jessie was of course skeptical of this decision, but was easily convinced when she learned that this area in particular is the Columbia Valley wine country!

Chris and Jessie now spend their weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest, but they look forward to a return trip to Florida in September 2017 to share their special day with all of you!