We met in December of 2024 thanks to our dear mutual friend Marianne, who clearly knew what she was doing when she set us up. Our first date was at Patcha in Seattle — a cozy coffee shop where we ended up talking for five hours straight. That coffee turned into an all-day adventure, ending with a first kiss in the back of an old VW bus and an invite to see Matt play a show with his two bands at a nearby pub. Something about that night just clicked — we both knew we’d stumbled into something really special.

As we continued to get to know each other, we discovered that we share not only a deep connection but also the same ideals, values, and hopes for the future. We often say “I love your brain” — a simple phrase that captures how much we appreciate each other's minds, perspectives, and the way we challenge and support one another.

People say “when you know, you know,” and that couldn't be truer for us. After years of growth, learning, and self-discovery, we both came into this relationship knowing exactly what we were looking for — and we are endlessly grateful to have found it in each other.

At the end of March 2025, we got engaged on the beach in Long Beach — just the two of us and our dog, Jack. It couldn’t have been more perfect. It’s a place that has always been special to Elise, and now it holds even more meaning for both of us. We can’t wait to return there to say “I do” and share that beautiful place with our most cherished friends and family.

Thank you for being part of our story. We’re so excited to celebrate this next chapter with you!

— Elise & Matt