Our humble love story began on Coffee Meets Bagel, a dating app that is best described as a virtual coffee shop that doesn’t work like today’s competitors requiring a swipe left or right. Rather, it works with the simple gesture of a “tap” on a heart next to a profile. When taps are mutual, a match is formed. The catch? Only first names and an icebreaker are introduced in a chat. Wild!

After quickly learning that we were each identical twins (both being the youngest) and had a connection to Washington state, we were jazzed and on track for a first date. Our first encounter was on July 24, 2020 amidst the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal was to (safely) let go of the world’s problems, even just for a day, and make an adventure out of it. We met at the M Street Coffee Shop in Studio City. With iced caramel lattes in-hand, we went to Topanga State Beach to soak up the day’s sun and bond over life’s dazzles and questions. Russell brought a big blanket and Sushi Go Party. Soon, the mood went from fun to sentimental. As we lay on the beach, the waves told us a story. It was beautiful. As the sun drooped low on the horizon, we took the PCH to Tacos tu Madre and ordered eclectic tacos, opening the Honda CRV hatch as our outdoor dining area. The evening concluded with a trip to Afters Ice Cream (Milky Buns, mmmmm…) and a spontaneous first kiss at the Topanga Lookout. With Ilze home safe, the drive home for Russell was nothing but a super cheesy grin. All was well!

The next 3 years were full of new experiences. Three big apartment moves brought us together in our charming abode in Woodland Hills. We’ve traveled the world - Maui, Washington (Russell’s first and longest road trip, even a first for Oregon), The Netherlands, Italy, France, and stunning Latvia. Qualities and ambitions complement each other well (Russell is now an IT developer at his current employer and Ilze continues to inspire children as a 3rd grade teacher). Ilze makes a mean parm chicken with asparagus. Russell is a BBQ grill-meister. Ilze loves The Bachelor and Russell is a Sci Fi nerd. Starting a family with kids is a resounding YES in our future. Life is good.

With the love we have for each other and the love we have for you, we are beyond excited to host you for our celebration at a place we both call home. We hope to see you soon! :)