We have always told the story differently. We both had such a clear "this is where it starts" moment, but it didn't happen in the same way for both of us. For that reason, we decided to each write our version of Our Story after we got engaged, and then we shared them with each other. We think between the two it's a pretty good representation of who and how we are, and we hope you like reading them :)

Julian and I met in March 2013, and had our first date a week later. We were set up by my sorority sisters for the “Perfect Pairs” date function, something that still makes me smile when I think about it! Julian and I hit it off immediately, and had our second date a day later. We quickly realized that we had found something special -- someone who could be a friend, ally, and partner.

Julian and I have both always valued our independence, and being able to be independently together has always been a cornerstone of our relationship. We love each other so deeply because we push each other to do and see things we don’t feel brave enough to do on our own. When I wanted to backpack for three months from Europe to Asia, Julian was quick to encourage me to go. He knew that even though it would be hard, it was something I needed to do for myself. When Julian moved to DC for a new job and was almost immediately transferred to Australia, I encouraged him to go because I knew he needed that experience too. Since then, we have each forged our own paths, but we have always done it with the other’s support and love. Time and again, this has made us a stronger couple and better friends.

Julian and I have been there for each other through incredibly hard times, including the loss of several dear friends and family members. We’ve also celebrated some of the best times of our lives together. We’ve windsurfed, sky dived, bungee jumped, and snorkeled. We've explored Thailand, played with tiger cubs, rode elephants, and tasted everything in sight. We've driven from DC to Canada in the dead of winter, tasting ice wine and braving the cold. The summer before Julian started full-time work in DC, we made another long trek to Acadia, Maine and talked about our future together the whole way. That was one of the best car rides I’ve ever had! Julian has been my partner in so much, and he is the best friend in the world. We are kindred spirits, and I cannot believe how lucky I am to be so in love with someone who so perfectly compliments me!

We both thrive on the unknown, so when Julian said he wanted to plan a full day of surprises for my birthday this year, I couldn’t wait. The day started with coffee (as every good day must), incredible massages, cupcakes and champagne, and a great southern-style brunch. Julian took us on a tour of the Renwick museum and we walked lazily around the National Mall, just enjoying being together on a perfect fall day. He took us to Constitution Gardens by the Reflection Pool, and I could see he was getting a little nervous! Then, he got down on one knee and I immediately burst into tears as my best friend in the world asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. It’s the easiest yes I’ve ever said! Julian had organized a surprise engagement party, and bursting with happiness we were greeted by our parents, my brother, our future Maids of Honor and Best Man, and so many wonderful friends. It was the best day of my life, and now I am so excited for all of the incredible days that we will share together in the future!

Katie and Julian met on an evening unlike any other. It was a cold, snowy night in March, a few days before the first break of the spring semester at their first fraternity and sorority mixer. Julian had been out of class for several hours, with BAC level to prove it. Meanwhile Katie, true to her character, had been working a nine hour waitress shift at a much-beloved bar in the Charlottesville area where the mixer was held. After failing out of several different conversations, Julian saw Katie from across the way, and thought that (on an off-chance), she would entertain the notion of an introductory conversation. After what he recalls to be a flawless introduction, Julian found himself head over heels in love with the girl of his dreams. It took but a few moments for him to realize she was the one. Katie, on the other hand, required some convincing.

After convincing Katie’s friends to set Julian up on a blind date with the bride-to-be, they had their very first date – a Perfect Pairs date function. Julian dressed up as a zoo keeper, while Katie dressed up as a cheetah – the costumes could not have more accurately predicted the roles that each of them would play in their budding relationship. The date function, too, brought out their true personalities: there was a hors d’oeveurs buffet right next to the dance floor. While the music was good, so were the steak and cheese eggrolls… it’s safe to assume they did not move more than five feet from that table the entire night.

Over the months (and years) to come, Julian and Katie fell in love with one another, and found themselves in a dream-come-true situation. While still young in their lives, each knew that there was something more they had found in the other person – a piece of themselves, and a piece of who they each wanted to be. They shared an appreciation for the world and all of its treasures, and the desire to travel it twice over. They both loved the outdoors, coffee, wine and home cooked food (though we’re still working on that one). With their love in-hand, and no map to follow, they began an epic journey that has lead them (and you) to this very day!

We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all the friends and family who have been so incredibly supportive of our relationship and goals. Following our union in love, we will continue to live in the Washington, D.C. Over the next few years, we plan to fulfill our mutual goal of living abroad, traveling the world, and maybe even piling on some additional student debt ☺

We thank you for joining us on this special occasion, and we can't wait to celebrate with you!