Ryan and Alexandra first fell in love at Up Down, a bar in the crossroads area of downtown KC which specializes in retro arcade games. A friendly wager was made during their first date. Ryan treated Alexandra to the shot of her choice when she won a game. A kiss was Ryan's reward for winning games. Ryan was very shrewd in waiting until Alexandra had won a few games of pinball before revealing his Galaga prowess.

Alexandra:

It was not long after our first date that I realized what an amazing man I had found. Along with my best friend Angela, we ventured to the West Bottoms to witness Squeezebox-o-Rama, a concert with twelve accordion players harmonizing on stage to perform polka and zydeco tunes. I was stuck behind a train for more than half an hour making me late, but Ryan patiently waited for me to arrive. When I finally arrived, he greeted me with a smile and was undeterred by the cold, dark December evening after a long day at work during the Christmas rush. The featured music isn't typically his jam, but he was remarkably accommodating, found humor in the evening's chaos, and we both had a blast.

Ryan:

Since I met Alexandra, I have felt more loved than I ever have before. I can’t wait for our wedding day. There are so many things that told me Alexandra was the one. During our first Easter together, she put so much effort into getting everything ready for Austin, Arlo, and Madelyn. The kids had a blast hunting for eggs in Angela’s backyard. The church service was also very memorable since it was Madelyn and Arlo’s first Episcopal service. There were numerous observations made by the children, some quiet……. Some not so quiet. They both enjoyed holding the candles at the beginning of the service and trying to make them burn as fast as possible. There was also a contest to see who could get the biggest flame. I won. But, there were also some concerns. “Don’t priests know kids aren’t supposed to drink wine?“ and, “Why are they waiving that smoke around? Are they trying to make people sneeze on purpose?” Communion wafers also received only one star. Alexandra joined me in welcoming the questions and answering them as best, and as quietly, as we could while exchanging smiles and glances.

Exactly one year after their first date, Ryan proposed to Alexandra in the same spot they fell in love, by the pinball machines at Up Down.

We're both so grateful to you, our community, for your love and support. We can't wait to celebrate the wedding with you soon!