Mike and Christine met when they were working at a cute little restaurant situated on the Gulf of Mexico. Their first shift working together was March 21st, 2018. When Christine was introduced to Mike she knew immediately that there was something familiar and extremely special about him. Mike had never experienced such exquisite beauty and grace. (I'm sure by now, you can tell who is writing this)

They continued working their respective jobs. Believe it or not, Mike was extremely quiet at work and kept to himself (She would find out later that Mike was not indeed quiet in the slightest)

Christine approached Mike and asked him if he'd be interested in hanging out, just as friends. At this time, Christine had just moved into town from Fort Lauderdale, so she didn't know too many people in this area. Mike agreed to hang out and suggested kayaking on the Hillsborough River (surrounded by alligators!) As scary and as bad of an idea of that may sound to any normal person, this was one of the easiest and best decisions she ever made. (Which says alot about Christine's life decisions up until this point)

Their first date took place on April 26th, 2018. As they navigated down the river there was easy conversation that felt like the two had known each other for years. Although only kayaking was planned initially for that date, they were having such a wonderful time that they decided to go to dinner in downtown Tampa at, what would become their favorite restaurant, Ulêlê. During dinner they talked about everything and even shared their entire meal. (If you know Christine, you know she doesn't share her food...ever!)

After their first date, the two knew there was something there. Both Mike and Christine agreed to take things slowly and continued hanging out on a once a week basis. In addition to working full time, Mike was undertaking a full course load of college classes and keeping up an impressive GPA. At this time Christine was dealing with her mom being sick. Both were extremely respectful of the others obligations and supported the other in any way they could.

On March 4th, 2019, Christine's mother passed. This would prove to be a pivotal point in Mike and Christine 's budding relationship, as Mike stood by her side through it all. A few days later, after all of the family and friends visiting went home, Mike planned a weekend getaway to St. Augustine. This would be the first of many trips together. It would also be the first time Christine truly knew that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Mike Poole.

In April, Christine moved in with Mike. After some relentless bugging, Christine talked Mike into getting a dog. When they went to look at some Labrador puppies, Mike upped the ante by suggesting they bring home both puppies. Thus their adventure into becoming dog parents together began. As soon as they brought Penne and Portabella home, their little family was complete.

Over the next few years, Mike and Christine continued to grow closer as a couple and tackle life together. 2021 brought a new host of challenges, when Mike's family experienced the loss of Mike's step father, Skip. Shortly thereafter, Mike's father, Carl passed. Mike's wonderful family and friends surrounded him with love and support during this time. A few months later, Mike's beloved mother, Carol, passed. On their own, these losses were hard enough, but to lose all three in such a brief period was absolutely heartbreaking. During this time, Mike displayed the type of strength and perseverance that Christine had never before seen. It made the couple realize how precious life is, and how well they worked as a team through some of life's most challenging events. In addition to the love of their beautiful family and friends, they would always have one another's support and love to see them through.

On June 24th 2022, Mike asked Christine to marry him on a gondola at the Venetian in Las Vegas. It was the easiest decision Christine had ever made. From there, Mike and Christine started planning their future.

On March 21st, 2023, they will be beginning their lives together against the beautiful and tropical backdrop of Hawaii. Their future plans include visiting every state in the U.S and what better way to start this journey than in paradise.

We are so excited to have our family and friends join us virtually. At the end of the summer we are looking forward to having everyone we love come together for a big reception party to celebrate not only our love, but the love of all our favorite people who have been an integral part of our love story.

Mahalo and we will see you all on March 21st! 🤙🏻