September 28, 2024 will mark a momentous occasion for Felicia and Mike as they exchange vows in a celebration steeped in love, adventure, and heartfelt memories. Their journey, which began over eight years ago, is a testament to the enduring power of true love and the beauty of shared experiences.

A Serendipitous Meeting

Felicia and Mike's story began in a rather unconventional but serendipitous manner. It was through Mike's good friend, Christian Gingrich, and Felicia's mother, Darlene Lanyon, that their paths crossed at a lively party. Mike, ever the musician, captivated Felicia's heart with his guitar playing, and the connection was instantaneous. This spontaneous meeting laid the foundation for a bond that has grown deeper with each passing year.

From First Dates to Forever

Their relationship, which blossomed in March 2016, has been marked by countless adventures and shared milestones. From traversing 19 flights together to road trips across state lines and exploring oceans, Felicia and Mike have truly embraced the spirit of adventure. A particularly memorable moment was when they welcomed their beloved French Bulldog, Ziggy, into their lives, adding a new dimension to their growing family.

Throughout their time together, they've faced challenges with unwavering strength and resilience. The unexpected loss of Mike’s mother, Janet, and other cherished family members was a profound test of their fortitude. Yet, they navigated these trials with compassion and support for one another, their love proving to be an anchor in turbulent times.

A Magical Proposal

Mike’s proposal to Felicia was nothing short of enchanting. During a camping trip to Twin Lakes, Mammoth Mountain, Mike orchestrated a breathtaking proposal on the beach at sunset. Felicia, caught completely off guard, was overcome with joy and immediately embraced Mike in a flurry of kisses, momentarily forgetting to say "Yes." The proposal was a closely guarded secret, known only to Mike and Felicia’s Papa, Bob, who had given his blessing in a quiet, heartfelt conversation prior to the trip.

Wedding Dreams Coming True

Their wedding, set against the picturesque backdrop of Bolsa Chica State Beach and the Huntington Harbor Yacht Club in Huntington Beach, CA, will embody a semi-formal tropical Hawaiian/Polynesian style. Felicia and Mike's wedding is a reflection of their love for vintage charm and mid-century modern aesthetics, with a deep connection to the sea—a symbol of their shared passions and lifestyle.

Felicia will don a Haku Lei, a beautiful flower crown symbolizing beauty, love, and fertility, while Mike will wear a Ti Leaf Maile wrapped with an Orchid Lei, representing good health and prosperity. These personal touches highlight their commitment to honoring cultural traditions and celebrating their love in a deeply meaningful way.

Looking Forward

Post-wedding, Felicia and Mike plan to embark on a five-day adventure in Belize, with dreams of a more extensive honeymoon next year in either Scotland & Ireland or an exotic locale like Bali or Fiji. Their future is bright, with aspirations of starting a family, exploring all seven continents, and finding a home where they can build a life filled with love and laughter.

In the coming years, they envision a coastal home filled with the sounds of children playing and the warmth of family gatherings. Their love story, grounded in adventure and resilience, continues to inspire and bring joy to those around them.

A Message to Their Guests

Felicia and Mike want to extend their heartfelt gratitude to their guests: “Thank you for sharing this special day with us and starting our new journey together. Your presence adds so much love to our day, making it even more meaningful.”

Their journey has been a testament to overcoming life's challenges and celebrating every triumph together. As they prepare to marry, Felicia and Mike reflect on a love that has weathered every storm and remains as strong as ever—a love that they believe is destined to last a lifetime.

A Final Thought

In the words of Mike’s grandmother, “To each their own.” This phrase encapsulates Felicia and Mike’s unconventional but beautifully unique relationship. They’ve crafted a life on their own terms, one that may not follow traditional paths but is perfectly suited to their hearts.