Emily's co-worker, Don Jones (Tujax), told Emily to reach out to the daughter-in-law of his friend, Carly, who was living in Phoenix and going through F16 b-course (aka learning how to fly with F16). Carly invited Emily to go out with her and her squadron for hibachi and bar hoping to celebrate Halloween. Not knowing many people in Phoenix, Emily said "Why not"? and decided to join. Little did we all know that would end up being the start of this adventure of a lifetime.

Emily shows up to the restaurant before everyone and waits outside, asking herself, "What the hell am I getting myself into now?". While waiting outside, she sees one guy walk into the restaurant, looking at her while opening the door; he immediately looks away after making eye contact. Turns out it was Ethan. Shortly after Carly appears with the rest of the group and everyone walks into the restaurant

Next, comes the awkward "Where is everyone going to sit?". Well, a premeditated plan was fulfilled, and Emily and Ethan found themselves sitting next to each other at the table. After about 30 minutes of being there, the only thing Emily had learned about Ethan was that he was an F35 pilot from Arkansas, was going to Alaska next, and his family had a Corgi. Ethan's lack of words made Emily think he was miserable to have gotten stuck next to the random girl who joined for the night. Turns out he was just nervous.

After a few more bars, they were talking over drinks as if they were the only ones in the room. Love at first sight? Well, that's up to you if you believe in that or not, but it was the start of something special.

After a few months of dating in Phoenix, they were faced with the inevitable looming fact that Ethan was moving to Alaska. Soon. Do they do long distance? Does Emily move with Ethan to Alaska? Well, after seven months of dating, they were Alaska-bound, together. After 11 days of travel and 62 hours in the car, they (still loved each other) were more excited than ever to start this new life in a foreign place together.

Fast-forward to today. They have been in Alaska for a year. They live on an airstrip in the North Pole with their two dogs and have survived -40 degrees as well sleeping with the midnight summer sun seeping into their bedroom. It doesn't matter the conditions, or where they are, as long as they are together.

We are very excited to have you join us on this special day celebrating the love shared between Ethan and Emily.

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