Instead of a traditional wedding party, we've chosen to keep things simple and focus on spending quality time with each of our cherished guests. We anticipate a day full of connection, laughter, and making memories together.

We met the modern way - on Tinder - back in February of 2017. Rachel was halfway through her first year at Iowa State, and Mike was working as a welder in Des Moines. Neither of us knew what to expect, but something about that first connection just clicked. One date turned into many, and before we knew it, we were building a life together.

Over the years, our relationship has grown in the most natural, easygoing way. After a year of dating, we moved in together and later adopted our first cat, Phoebe. Rachel graduated college and entered the workforce as we weathered the pandemic. We found pleasure in life's little moments while we worked, saved, and eventually bought a house together. Once we settled in, Mike decided to make a career change, and we both set our sights on new personal and professional goals. We've learned that we are opposites in many ways, but where it counts most, we’re exactly the same. Our values have always aligned, and our dreams continue to evolve as we create our future together.

We were never in a rush to get married. We’ve always known we were in it for the long haul, and that certainty felt like enough. But on Christmas morning 2024, Mike completely surprised Rachel with the most perfect proposal. We chose a long engagement for stress-free wedding planning, and couldn't be happier. In the meantime, we also decided to get Phoebe a friend - Bonnie joined us last fall. She fits right in with our cozy little family.

After nine years (and counting), we’re still each other’s favorite person. Now, we’re just excited to make it official, to celebrate with our loved ones, and to keep writing the next chapters of our story.