Our paths were not likely to cross! But the universe worked in mysterious ways to bring us together at the right time in both our lives, and the right place.

Miriam landed in LA after taking a trip to Italy and Greece with a close friend, Sydney. As the gals drove to Van Nuys near Russell's home after the flight, Miriam crossed through Russell's Hinge location radius (against alllll dating-app odds) and we matched!

Russell and Miriam's first phone called lasted 3 hours--on accident!--and the friendship and interest was instant.

By the time we met a week later in-person for our first date at Paloma Cafe in Santa Barbara, Russell asked the bartender, "How long do you think we've been together?" After sizing us up for a moment, she replied, "Four and a half years!"

....we are still looking forward to celebrating our four and a half year anniversary.... ;)

Just under a year after our first date, we were engaged on a beach looking over the French coastline--making a lifelong dream of Miriam's come true.

Thereafter we moved in together to make Sherman Oaks our shared home, adopted our puppy, Finnegan, and hosted the holidays with both our wonderful families.

This year on May 4th, we eloped on a beach in Kauai to begin our marriage! We are overjoyed to celebrate with our loved ones this fall! ❤️