Alison and John first met at a little pie shop just outside Dallas. The date was December 9, 2023. John showed up early and found a spot to sit outside, sunglasses on and pretending to talk on his phone to look cool. Alison wore a flowing sundress. When she smiled, he was immediately taken. 


The air was perfect with a slight breeze. They shared pie and coffee (rather, John ate two slices as Alison nibbled on hers, wondering to herself if this was normal behavior). They visited a plant shop and then a boutique where John remarked he couldn’t tell if they were standing in the men’s or women’s section, or if we even know what a woman is anymore. Alison tried so hard to focus on his positives. 


John was charmed by her light and airy personality. It was obvious that she was full of joy and loved her family. She could tell John was kind, honest, and averaged well over 300 yards off the tee. And yes, he did kiss her on the first date. 


Soon, they shared New Year’s Eve together with Alison’s friends. They danced and kissed each other (emerging pattern) as 2023 became 2024. Over the next year, they fell for each other. Alison learned what it really meant to be with a morning person.  John learned that immune boosters, mascara, and Bluetooth speakers are non-negotiable items for hiking, and also learned to “just listen” without offering solutions (yeah, right). Alison’s family welcomed John into their home for meals and he enjoyed baking pie with her mom. They visited John and his dogs in Shreveport, too. Every time John saw Alison, she looked prettier and prettier. 


They travelled all over the country together. They listened to jazz in the Big Easy and went rafting in Colorado, where John booked a whitewater for beginners tour, but secretly selected Class V rapids instead. That landed him in the doghouse for an entire week, but it was oh so worth it. Then, in the mountains of Washington state, they started talking about the M word:


John: I wonder what it would be like if we were married.


Alison: Wait, we're exclusive?


(Alison's sense of humor is one of the many things John loves about her)


They realized they want the same things – to live a simple life, have a family full of love, and enjoy the outdoors. With her parents' blessing, John took Alison back to their original first date spot and asked her to marry him. She said yes! 


Alison and John cannot wait to celebrate 'forever' with you. To spend quality time with those they love, they picked an idyllic setting where friends and family can come together, unplug, and let time pass a little more slowly - none other than coastal Carmel-by-the-Sea. The happy couple cannot wait to “sea” you there!