They say timing is everything—and for us, it truly was.

We met in the Fall of 2021 through Bumble, in a season of our lives where we were both seeking something deeper—connection, truth, and love built on purpose. After a few weeks of witty banter and meaningful conversations, we met for our first date on September 20, 2021, at The Congregation Ale House in Downtown Long Beach.

Eugene was on time. Erin was fashionably late. A dynamic that has remained delightfully consistent ever since.

Eugene, skeptical from past dating experiences, had arranged for his cousin to call with a fake "emergency"—an escape plan, just in case. But within minutes of meeting Erin, that plan dissolved. He stepped away, called his cousin, and told her, "Never mind. I think I just met someone different."

That night, we shared quirky jokes, challenging conversations, and an unexpected level of emotional and spiritual depth. We didn’t just connect—we clicked. We spoke openly about life, love, purpose, and spirituality. Without knowing it, we were already laying the foundation of something sacred.

As the night went on, we moved from The Congregation to The Stave. When the bartender asked what we’d like to drink, we both—simultaneously and without hesitation—said, “Mezcal Old Fashioned.” A small sign, but one of many cosmic confirmations we’ve discovered along our journey together.

We closed down the bar that night. Erin kissed Eugene before leaving, and from that moment, we were never quite the same.

Though the official “Will you be my girlfriend?” came a month later—on October 24, 2021—we both knew that something powerful had already begun.

In January 2022, we took our first trip as a couple together to Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. Combining Eugene's love for his heritage with Erin's admiration of wine, and our shared passion for really, really good cuisine, Valle de Guadalupe ended up being the perfect weekend getaway. And it nearly was... except Eugene came down with Covid the day we set out to cross the border, leaving only Erin with taste buds healthy enough to enjoy our first food and wine adventure.

On New Year’s Eve, 2023, in the sacred stillness of Jacumba Hot Springs, we honored our yearly ritual—writing out our shared Relationship Goals. It’s a practice rooted in intention and alignment. That evening, we recommitted to the values that shape our bond:

* To support each other’s evolution and healing without expecting perfection.

* To hold space without judgment.

* To communicate with calm honesty.

* To celebrate joy, protect trust, and cultivate emotional maturity.

* To pursue passions, grow spiritually, and co-parent with grace.

* And to remain intentional in deepening our intimate connection.

After ringing in the 2024 New Year and before retiring early in the morning, Eugene told Erin that he wanted to add one final goal to their list… “I don’t want to go one more year without knowing that we’ll be married.”

At first, Erin didn’t fully register what he meant. But when the realization hit, so did the emotion. We cried. We held each other. And without rings or fanfare—just truth, clarity, and open hearts—we stepped fully into the next chapter of our love. This engagement wasn’t about spectacle. It was about spiritual readiness. A divine yes.

Now, almost exactly four years after becoming a unified couple, we will stand hand in hand and begin the next chapter of our lives on October 25, 2025, in Valle de Guadalupe, with close family and friends by our side. Truly a full circle moment for us.

What makes our love so rare is not just the laughter or the chemistry—but the commitment to something higher. We are both seekers, dedicated to personal growth, spiritual evolution, and becoming the best version of ourselves—for each other, for our families, and for our community.

Through the years, we’ve often said: “It feels like we’ve met before.” And maybe we have. Maybe the universe has woven our souls together in other lifetimes, only to reunite us again now.

This is a love rooted in respect, passion, vision, and devotion. A sacred union. One that honors the uniqueness in each of us—and the divine force that brought us together.

Thanks to each of you who have been a part of our journey thus far, and for all that is to be celebrated in our future together.

We can't wait to share a Mezcal Old Fashion with you!