Our Story
How it all began
Matt moved to Denver, CO in December of 2013 from Huntington Beach, CA in pursuit of new adventures. The move took some convincing from his friend (and groomsman) Andy Burdin, and after a visit and some awesome hiking Matt was convinced.
In April of 2016, Samantha relocated for work and started her own adventure. Matt had been playing kickball in Denver; a pastime he picked-up in California. Shortly after her move, Samantha learned about kickball through a new friend, threw caution to the wind, and decided to sign-up in order to meet people in her new hometown.
Serendipitously, this was the same kickball league - among many in Denver - in which Matt was playing. It didn't take long for the two to catch one another's eye. It wasn't until a tournament in Las Vegas that they really had a chance to spend some time together and get to know one another. There was no denying they had found someone - and something - special.
The Engagement
In April of 2019, the pair returned to Las Vegas for another kickball tournament. Following a weekend of sunny weather and kickball glory, Matt & Samantha planned to stay an additional night in the city that sparked their flame.
It was a mild, beautiful night. The couple devoured a delightful meal at Nobu followed by the antics & acrobatics of the show "Absinthe." Perhaps making it all too easy for Matt, Samantha suggested taking a stroll to the location nearby where they had shared their first kiss. It was getting late, but the weather was perfect and they would be departing for Columbus early the following morning, so they decided to make the most of their time. Off they went!
After a lovely stroll, reminiscing and taking in the lights & sights, Samantha said it was time to call it a night and head back to the hotel. Matt wanted to linger a bit longer. Unsure why they were still just standing around in the middle of Vegas, Samantha again stated it was time to head back. Matt grabbed her by the hand and it was then she knew what was happening. Matt recognized Samantha's realization. With a grin on his face, Matt reached into his pocket, looked at Samantha, and said, "Yup!" He then got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. He barely had a chance to open the ring box before she said "Yes!" In fact, she said it so quickly Matt was a little disappointed she hadn't really looked at the ring and instead embraced him immediately.
And the rest is history
We couldn’t have done it without our friends and family. Below are some photos of our adventure and those that helped us along the way.
