How did you meet?

Modern dating apps work, friends! 

What first attracted you to each other?

Alexandra: I remember our first date, sitting across from him over a cup of coffee and watching his eyes light up as he told me he owned a Lego business. That was a new one, but his passion and excitement for the things that he loves (myself included) was and is one of my favorite things about him. 

Johanan: It became apparent to me almost immediately that we share similar thought processes and methods of communication. Naturally, that made our early interactions feel like lifelong friends, and led to such a strong connection early on. 

What is your favorite memory with each other?

Alexandra: Getting engaged!?! 

Johanan: One of my favorite early memories is how excited she was talking about her bachelors thesis on eye proteins, she explained such complex concepts in a way that was so clear it would have anyone feel like an expert. I have always appreciated being able to learn more about her passions (biology, genetics) through her eyes and vast knowledge. 

What is your favorite way of spending time together?

Alexandra: Snuggling up on the couch watching our shows, playing games, or listening to him snore. 

Johanan: Working out all of life's puzzles, and renovation projects! 

How did you get engaged?

Johanan planned every detail and got so many of our loved ones in on it to keep it a complete secret from Alexandra for nearly 4 months. We went down to Old Town Lansing where we had our first date, to walk along the river and grab a coffee at the cafe where we met. We walked down to a little overlook over the water just to enjoy the view, and then Alexandra spotted a random photographer in the background. She asked "Why is there a photographer out here?" which Johanan naturally thought was her calling him out on what was going on and immediately got down on one knee to Alexandra's COMPLETE shock. One photo shoot later, he whisked her away to a cocktail hour with our friends and family (including arranging some folks to fly in and train in to celebrate) and catered dinner at our home with everyone afterwards which had been expertly decorated in record time. 

He did good! 

Why did you decide on a destination wedding?

Alexandra has always loved the thought of a beachside wedding, and Johanan was sold on making it a multi-day celebration. With so many family and friends spread out across the country (and world!) it just made sense to have everyone fly somewhere warm and sunny!! We are so excited to be able to share such a special time with our favorite people, and we hope everyone is ready to relax, enjoy some sunshine, and party!!!