Kristen and Shawn’s story began one summer afternoon, while celebrating our friend Megan’s birthday playing wiffle ball. Kristen remembers striking Shawn out, however this is not Shawns recollection of the day. Regardless of the mixed recollections, from this day forward they continued to get to know one another, and enjoyed playing competitive sports together. Over the next few months, Kristens drives down from Boston had her enjoying volleyball and the beach. Shawns drives to Boston had him enjoying touring the city and seeing shows. After getting some practice with long drives they decided to head to Portland, ME, where they became official. It was here they learned they had the same love for adventure and exploring new places. Their favorite new discovery in Portland was the Grille Room where they enjoyed a great happy hour and food.

Over the next year they made plans to move in together in Newport, followed by Bristol with our amazing friends Megan and Nate. They provided unmatched company, especially during COVID. We loved cooking meals together and creating unique workouts and games. On our second anniversary together, they surprised us by cooking us dinner to celebrate at ‘Casa da la Wales’.

After living with Megan and Nate they found their own place in downtown Bristol where they have lived since. They enjoyed some great times with friends, hosting the Fourth of July parade and a Santa themed bar crawl around Christmas. They have also been fortunate to continue to enjoy playing volleyball together with Newport Volleyball Club and at Colt State Park. They also enjoy playing hockey and basketball respectfully.

Little did Kristen know Shawn was planning an engagement in the place their love story began. Shawn found the perfect opportunity when Kristen had a charity hockey tournament in Portland. As fate would have it, the day Shawn picked to propose was National Donut Day which was a perfect compliment to their friend that introduced us. He had to find the perfect moment outside of her hockey schedule and he decided that the waterfront of the Portland Harbor was the spot.

Kristen was shocked and answered a resounding YES! The perfect follow up this amazing news was of course, dinner and drinks to celebrate at our favorite place, the Grille Room. The weekend continued with many champagne toasts in between hockey games.

We can’t wait to celebrate with all of you!! See you May 12!

Love,
Kristen and Shawn