Our Story

A little about us…

Our story started the way, we think, the best ones do-unintentionally, almost unassumingly. We were set up for a school dance. Little did our friend know that not only had he found a good pairing for one night, but for a lifetime. We hit it off and began dating soon after the dance. 

A little less than a year later, it was time to head to college. We said our tearful (on Mikaela’s part) goodbyes and texted every day, navigating the 2 hour time difference, and seeing each other at every break we could. During our junior year, we had the chance to travel the world together while we studied abroad in Spain and Italy. Even though we were in different countries, we celebrated being in the same time zone, and traveled to Portugal, Paris, and Morocco together.

After graduation, we were ready to be in the same city. We both lived in Sacramento in our own apartments for six months before moving into our first home together. Then, in 2024, we took a leap and drove across the country together to move to Washington, DC. 

Throughout our relationship, we have allowed each other to evolve and encouraged each other to grow, change, and chase big dreams. We know that, for us, life is better with each other at our side. 

Our love lives in the ordinary as much as the extraordinary: shopping for groceries, cooking meals, exploring neighborhoods on bikes, introducing each other to new music, and traveling across the world. Mikaela brings her vibrant energy, creativity, and deep sense of community; Patrick brings his calm curiosity, thoughtful independence, and hands-on way of shaping the world. 

By the date of our wedding, we will have spent 10 years together. After over a decade together, we are so excited for this next chapter, to walk through the world in a partnership as husband and wife.