The start of a Hallmark movie that somehow hasn’t been made yet: French Hearts, Cleveland Boys. We met at Ben’s cousin Chris’ wedding, who just happened to be marrying one of Coralie’s best friends from growing up in Paris, Saskia. Not pictured: the entire crowd ugly-crying as Ben delivered a speech that will go down in the history books.

A first date we didn’t realize was a first date. Both lovers of water and adventure, Ben picked Coralie up at 6am to catch the ferry to Catalina. We spent the day diving, eating lobster rolls, and sipping some of the worst margaritas imaginable, all while Ben played hooky from work. What started as two friends catching up after a wedding ended with an inkling there was something more here after hours of talking about everything from family and careers to goals and future dreams.

A few weeks after making it offish, we chased some fresh pow pow, another one of our favorite things to do. And while it might’ve been early by traditional standards, it was on that trip that Ben dropped the big L word. Coralie immediately burst into tears… then said it right back.

Our first trip together, we spent the week trekking around the Big Island in Hawaii.

Soaking in a Laguna sunset—one of Coralie’s favorite things in the world, and a perfect reminder of what makes California feel so magical to us.

Full circle moment: Ben proposed to Coco after a scuba dive in Costa Rica—on a boat, mid-ocean, taking a mildly risky chance with the ring. The day ended the way we like best. A stay in a private villa with a poolside dinner prepared by the chef, featuring all our favorite things: fresh seafood, good meat, and strong cocktails.