There were several stories we told when explaining how we met, but in truth, it all began with a swipe on Tinder. After lengthy text conversations covering every topic imaginable, it wasn't long before we agreed to meet for a drink just before Aaron's Thanksgiving vacation.

On November 23, 2021, at Goose & Monkey in Lexington, NC, marked the beginning of our story. Shay was so nervous, and gave the bartender a heads up that she would meeting with a stranger, though it proved unnecessary. Shay and Aaron hit it off, and closed down the bar. Even after the bar closed, we sat in the car and talked for another hour before having to go our separate ways to drive home.

Excited to get to know each other more, Aaron wasted no time in planning a second date post-Thanksgiving – axe-throwing in Charlotte. The evening was filled with laughter and excitement, followed by an impromptu meal at a local pizzeria. And so began our journey – weekends spent traveling between Winston Salem and Charlotte, each visit offering new adventures for us to explore together. We enjoyed whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, trying out new recipes, and taking weekend getaways to Asheville. Our shared experiences deepened our bond as we explored events like Oktoberfests, RenFests, and countless other adventures, reveling in the joy of discovery as a couple.

After over a year of navigating medium-distance, Aaron made the move to Winston Salem, and we opened the door to our first international trip together. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Bahamas to the rich culture of Belize and Mexico, we realized our shared passion for exploration. It was during our European backpacking trip that Shay realized she had found her forever travel companion in Aaron.

At an Asian Lantern Festival in December 2023, amidst shimmering lights, Aaron told Shay his dream of visiting Japan, and Shay imagined a proposal beneath the cherry blossoms. Little did she know, Aaron was already thinking of proposing.

On April 9, 2024, after a downpour rain shower in Sankeien Gardens, Yokohama, Japan, Aaron knelt down on a bridge surrounded by cherry blossoms, proposing to Shay. It was a perfect moment, marking the next chapter of our journey together.

Now, the next chapter awaits – marriage. We eagerly anticipate sharing this milestone with you, our friends and family, as our story continues to unfold in Punta Cana!

S&A

Prost! We're tying the knot!