We first met in 2017 at our first jobs after college, in San Francisco. A year into working together, we moved from being just friends and colleagues to officially dating.
In our first few years dating, we met each other's friends and families, tried new restaurants and went on many adventures. We started living “our” lives together.
We’ve traveled near and far. Carmel, Tahoe, Colorado, Seattle, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and more. Sam was so adventurous, he let Michelle teach him how to ski! Michelle was so smitten, she let Sam turn her into a basketball fan. We’ve made memories that will last a lifetime.
In February 2020, we signed a lease for our first apartment together. It didn’t go as expected due to the pandemic, but we found new ways to grow closer and stronger. We walked all over San Francisco together, from Ghiradelli Square to Lafayette Park and the Lyon Steps.
The day before Christmas Eve 2021, we added an adorable, yet reluctant walker to our family. Bella snuggled up in her pouch and joined us on our sightseeing strolls, park picnics, Colorado flights, beach days, and wine weekends (even getting a few nibbles of cheese when she is a good girl).
On December 9, 2023, Sam snuck out early in the morning while Michelle was asleep, carrying 50lb sandbags, 100 tiny stones, a bottle of champagne and 2 glasses. After weeks of planning, the day was here, a surprise proposal for Michelle at the top of Lafayette Park.
Later, Michelle trekked up the hill under the guise of meeting before afternoon tea. From a distance, she could make out a large golden arch covered with stunning poinsettias, roses and other florals. When she saw Sam standing there, it hit her. She was overwhelmed with joy. As the photographer snapped pictures, we embraced inside a semi-circle of stones representing one of our first dates at Lands End. Time slowed down. Sam finally asked, “Michelle, will you marry me?” Michelle said, “Yes, of course!”
The surprises didn’t stop there. That evening, we went to the Drexler’s house for a Hanukkah dinner (so she thought). When we opened the front door, Michelle was shocked to see her family there too. We celebrated our engagement, shared a meal, and devoured an amazing cake made by Chef Amanda. It was a magical day.
When we started planning our next big day, we knew Italian culture had to be a part of it. For our fifth anniversary, we spent two weeks in Italy. It’s our favorite trip together. We learned to appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Slowing down, basking in beautiful scenery, enjoying food, wine and time with loved ones.
Fortunately, we have a taste of Italy just an hour from home. Geyserville, California has become our local retreat from busyness. A sanctuary to breathe fresh air, relax and take in natural beauty, and sip wine.
We are so excited to have you join us at Trentadue (32 in Italian) on Friday, October 10, 2025. The rolling hills remind us of Tuscany. While the Redwoods resemble Tahoe. The vibes are quintessential Michelle and Sam. The best of Italy and California in one place.
We are thrilled to celebrate our love with you, our dearest family and friends.