How did you meet?

We met in 2020, and since it was at the start of the pandemic, we had limited options for our first date. So we met at a state park to walk the trails. It was love at first site. We were both awkward and giddy. We walked and talked for hours, paying no attention to the time. It was like we had known each other our whole lives. We were there so long that we got locked in and we had to wait for a Park Ranger to open the gate for us, which seemed to greatly inconvenience him. We had a good laugh after he lectured us about the importance of following park rules. We just had an instant connection and we haven't been apart since.   

What first attracted you to each other?

Scott: Definitely her eyes, and her outgoing, energetic personality.
Nicole: His kind eyes, and his gentle, easygoing nature. 

What is your favorite memory with each other?

Scott: There are so many great memories over the years. The trips we've taken, the shows we've seen, and the times we've just spent at home. But the one that stands out the most for me was our first date. Not being able to do the traditional things was a blessing. There were no distractions like there would be if we had gone to dinner or a movie. It was simple. Just walking around the park and getting to know each other. Nicole laughing at my corny dad jokes (which she still does today), sitting on the bench keeping her warm, and watching nature around us. It was perfect. Every year since then, we've gone back to that same park and sat on the same bench.
Nicole: The day Scott met my kids. He was so sweet. He came over and he had brought each of them a gift. He got down on floor and played with them. He spent time getting to know each of them. My heart just melted watching him with them, and I knew after that day that he was the one. He has spent every day since then helping me build beautiful memories for our family. 

What is your favorite way of spending time together?

Scott:  I actually have two favorites: sitting at home on our swing beside a fire with a drink in our hands, or going to a concert. It doesn't matter who is playing, I just love being there with her.
Nicole: Those are two of my favorites too! I also love going on new adventures. Little weekend getaways or trips to some place new. Also, I love family time. Anything we do together as a family is at the top of my list. 

How did you get engaged?

Scott proposed on Christmas Day in 2023. He had Nicole open up gifts from each of the kids, and within each gift was a puzzle piece in the shape of a bear with their name on it. Then he gave Nicole a gift with the same puzzle piece in the shape of a bear with her name on it. The final gift was a box of letters that he had each of the kids write describing why they wanted us to get married. As Nicole read each letter, the tears got bigger, and she knew this was FINALLY happening. After Nicole read each of the letters, Scott got down on one knee, proposing, and handing Nicole the last piece of the puzzle, a bear with his name on it. When assembled, the puzzle forms a family of bears hugging, signifying that their family is now complete.     

Why did you decide on a destination wedding?

We've both been married once before, and we've done the traditional wedding. This time, we want to break from the tradition and have a celebration with our family and friends in one of the most beautiful places on earth!  No stress, no extensive wedding planning, no obligations, and no gifts. Just a good time with the people we love!