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  • Grace & Matthew

    Grace & Matthew

    How did you meet?

    We met on Bumble! After chatting for about a week we decided to meet up for a first date.

    First or favorite date?

    We had our first date downtown LA at Birdies. We had fried Chicken & Donuts!

    How did he propose?

    I spent Thanksgiving 2017 with Matthew’s family in Phoenix, Arizona. He suggested that since we were so close, we should take a quick trip to Sedona. I agreed because traveling is my main jam. After exploring the town a bit he suggested that we go to Airport Mesa because he read that that was the best place in town to see the sunset from. After hunting a bit, we found a secluded bench to sit and enjoy the evening. As we sat in that beautiful place, Matthew began to recap the year we’d had together. He talked about all the amazing places we’d been, things we’d eaten, meeting each other’s family’s, and falling in love (I had no idea what was really happening yet but I was already sobbing). As Matthew said all these beautiful things to me he said “And I have no doubt that you’re the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with” and I thought to myself “Oh my God. This is happening now”. Then he got down on one knee and asked me to become his wife. How could I say anything but yes!

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Managing family and their expectations was far and away the toughest part.

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    We picked the first one we liked in our budget!\

    What’s your favorite memory from your wedding day?

    How do you pick 1! Matthew’s favorite moment was right after I walked down the aisle/before our vows. We didn’t do a first look so it was our first moment together that day! We were holding hands and both just so giddy! The vows were my favorite moment. We wrote our own as well as doing traditional ones so they were so personal. I was sobbing through all of them but I think it was the happiest moment of my life.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    Two things: It’s told me exactly what to do and when to do it and it’s nice having someone who I know I can go to with any questions about the process I may have. I feel like none of my friends remember how they did anything which I can only assume is because it is a horrendous, traumatic process.

  • Purchases Newlyweds Should Protect

    Purchases Newlyweds Should Protect

    As newlyweds, you and your spouse will most likely be making important financial decisions and investments, many of these for the first time. As unromantic as it may sound, finances can play a huge role in how successful and happy your marriage will be. It’s no secret that arguing over money puts a huge strain on a relationship, but understanding how to protect these big purchases can help start your marriage off on the right foot. Here are four investments that newlyweds should protect along with a few tips on how to do so.

    Your new engagement/wedding ring(s)

    An engagement ring is a special, yet expensive investment. Putting an insurance policy on your beloved symbol of love may sound unromantic, but it’s important to make sure that your ring is protected forever. While the sentiment behind your ring is priceless, jewelry insurance will allow you to replace your ring in the event that something happens to it. Keep in mind that just because you may already have a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy doesn’t mean that all of your jewelry is automatically covered, so be sure to look into insurance options shortly after the ring is purchased. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your jeweler. Many online jewelers, including Blue Nile, not only offer an extraordinary collection of engagement rings, but also provide information on how to insure jewelry directly on their website.

    Your honeymoon

    Your honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime trip filled with everlasting memories with your new spouse, but it’s also a huge financial investment. It’s important to plan ahead for a big trip like a honeymoon, but more time before a trip also means more time in which something can go wrong. While travel insurance can’t stop unpredictable events from disrupting your honeymoon, it can protect your investment. Medical emergencies, lost baggage, and tropical storms are just a few occurrences that can be protected by travel insurance. While planning your honeymoon, be sure to explore travel insurance options to see what is covered and help make your planning process less stressful.

    Your HOME

    Many newlywed couples look forward to buying their first home together shortly after walking down the aisle. From finding the perfect house to picking out decor and doing renovations, there is so much that goes into making your new house feel like home. If you and your spouse are buying a house or have already made the big purchase, consider investing in a home security system. Homes without security systems are 2.7 times more likely to be targeted by burglars. This shows that the mere presence of an alarm system is enough, in most cases, to protect your home and its occupants from a break-in. On top of that, homeowners typically receive a 10-20% discount on their homeowner’s insurance by having a functioning home alarm system installed. Companies like SimpliSafe, offer easy to install wireless home security systems that allow you to keep a close eye on your home no matter where you are.

    SHARED bank account

    While this isn’t necessarily a purchase, many newlywed couples choose to combine their finances after saying “I do.” This can simplify the process of paying your bills and allows you to have a better idea of your current financial situation. For many, this is the first time sharing a bank account with another person so it’s important to talk with your partner to define your financial goals and create a plan before merging your accounts. Each partner should come prepared with a list of their accounts, debts, and a copy of his/her credit score. Make it a habit to repeat this every few months. Rather than one partner taking the lead on handling the money, both partners should know exactly what’s going on financially to stay on top of bills and paying off debt.

     

  • Sarah & Anthony

    Sarah & Anthony

    How did you meet?

    We actually were first introduced to each other back in 2006 through a mutual friend. We had run into each other throughout the years, but we were always off in different directions. Anthony then made the first move, by sending a FB message in 2015 to ask how I had been. We had met up one weekend out at a local bar, went on a date the following day and we knew it was meant to be! He claims he had a crush on me for 4 years before finally making an attempt to reach out to me, and it’s safe to say I’m SO happy he did!! 

    First or favorite date?

    I would have to say my favorite date is when we went in our first hike together followed by dinner in Old Forge, NY! It’s where we both realized our love for the outdoors/ that little town was a big thing we had in common. It was also such a laid back “date”, that it was a day of just truly being ourselves and getting to know each other!

    How did he propose?

    Grab your popcorn… this is a story… haha! When Anthony and I first got together, he was stationed in Ray Brook, NY, a tiny little town in Lake Placid where he was working as a State Trooper at the time. A month before we got engaged, he was stationed closer to home and with hopes of buying a house we both moved into my parents’ house to save money. It was Valentine’s Day, which was also our one year dating anniversary and we had the house to ourselves because my parents were staying overnight elsewhere to have their own evening together. After a very long day of work for both of us, we decided to have a relaxing night in with wine and pizza. We go to exchange gifts and I give him mine first. Next is my turn and he tells me that he didn’t have time to get anything (which is why he sent me beautiful flowers earlier in the day to work) and not worried about a gift I say that’s totally fine! We laugh, and talk and the night continues and he says “Oh, wait! I do have something for you!” He goes into the bedroom and has a 2018 NYS PBA card and on the front it says, spouse. So confused as to why he gave me the spouse card (I had no idea what was happening) I tell him that it wouldn’t work for me because I’m not your spouse! As those words leave my mouth he’s getting down on one knee!! I had absolutely NO idea it was coming and I was in shock!! It was so special, even though it was just the two of us in our pajamas, a box of pizza and half a bottle of wine deep in my parents’ kitchen… it was a beautiful moment and one I’ll never forget.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Okay so honestly, I did everything for this wedding. From designing my own invitations to setting up the final finishing touches the morning OF the wedding… I thought of and put everything together and had a lot of people who helped bring my vision to life. No wedding planner, no venue planner or set up team, myself and my bridal party/ family DID. IT. ALL. With that being said, I can’t really place my finger on anything that was difficult. Everything fell into place and I stayed on top of everything pretty well. I’m a very laid back person who can keep a very level head and not get stressed out. Planning my wedding was actually enjoyable and very fun with just a little dash of stress! :$

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    In my earlier explanation on our favorite date, we LOVE Old Forge, NY. The distance from the hustle and bustle of “city life” and the serenity and stillness that the lakes and mountain air provide is something like no other place. So we were determined to find our venue there. We looked into one venue and one venue only, Adirondack Woodcraft Camps and it was love at first sight!! Even when seeing it in the wet and muddy month of November, I could still envision how beautiful it would be and it was absolutely more than beautiful. I told you everything fell right into place, our venue hunt did not take long!

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    Ahhh our wedding day. How do you pick just ONE memory?! I would have to say my favorite part of the whole day was our ceremony. Standing at the start of the aisle (which was the woods haha) with my Father at my side, and seeing the big open field, filled with sunshine and all of the people I love was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. Finally making my way down to the aisle, the look on my husband-to-be’s face absolutely melted my heart and witnessing him get emotional for the first time ever while saying his vows showed me how much love he has for me. Ugh talking about it is getting me all emotional. So in the end, my favorite part of our wedding day was our short, sweet and beautiful ceremony in the woods.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    I’m self-employed and work long days without much time to spare. Especially on business days when there is only so much time in the day to get things done!! Knowing of all the paperwork and stops I had ahead of me with the name changing process, I was looking to make it as easy as possible and HitchSwitch has done just that! I will forever recommend them to all, anyone and everyone who loves smooth transitions! Thank You HitchSwitch!

     

  • How to Survive Your First Thanksgiving Dinner as the Host

    How to Survive Your First Thanksgiving Dinner as the Host

    You’ve done everything in your power to avoid it. You’ve come up with excuses, little white lies, and even used up your “I won’t be in town” card more than once even though we both know you ordered in Pizza Hut and watched Game of Thrones for the tenth time.

    But the time has come, and you’ve been selected to host this year’s Thanksgiving dinner. One of the most important family gatherings of the year where relatives you haven’t seen for months are coming to take a seat at your table to commemorate this luscious holiday.

    first time hosSo now what?

    Well, the first step is to pour yourself a glass of whiskey to calm the nerves because my friend…

    Can’t Spell Menu without Me N U…and Aunt Mildred Who has a Stuffing Recipe that Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance

    Turkey. The centerpiece of your table. It needs to be large enough to satisfy all your guests and cooked to perfection. Otherwise, you’ll be incorporated into everyone’s conversations for the rest of the year as “the one who ruined Thanksgiving.”

    Don’t be that relative.

    Don’t feel like you need to prepare a whole menu alone. So if Aunt Mildred believes her stuffing recipe is what’s going to be the talk of the table, then so be it. This is a potluck holiday, which means all your friends and family should all prepare a dish and bring it along. That way, you won’t be feeling overwhelmed to do everything alone.

    Find Out What Recipes Can Be Made The Day Before, And Make Them!

    If you’re a busy bee and you’re losing your sanity thinking about how you are going to manage hosting while working a full-time job, there are some steps you can take to ease that weight off your shoulders.

     

    Anything that can be reheated such as pies or casseroles can be made and frozen until Thanksgiving Day!

    Here is a list of food that can be made ahead to save you some time.

    Set the Table, the Table Rules, and Ban Politics Talk

    Once you know how many people are attending, it’s best to set the table the night before. That includes silverware, cups, utensils, and napkins. If you want to add candles or any decoration, this is the time to do it.

    Why table rules?

    Uh, because you don’t want your Uncle Jim and Cousin Luke going at it regarding topics that are just not convenient for a family dinner. Believe me; nobody wants to discuss immigration laws and how they’ve changed in the past four years when you can be laughing at inappropriate jokes and predicting Jon Snow’s fate in season 8.

     

    If it gets too intense and things spiral out of control, calmly request that they take it outside.

    Have Appetizers and Drinks Available in Case the Turkey Needs More Time

    If you’re a diehard chef, you probably already got appetizers covered. But if you don’t, then don’t worry. Store bought will work just fine, I promise. Keep in mind that Thanksgiving dinner is a huge meal and there will be plenty of leftovers.

    Pass out some drinks to your company to keep them occupied until dinner is ready.

    What’s Missing…Other than Your Aunt from Your Mother’s Side Whose Travelling the Globe in Order to “Find Herself”?

    Listen, when it comes to that “one last thing,” and whether it’s a pie or bread rolls, don’t feel ashamed to buy it from your local grocery store. If this is what will help you feel more relaxed, then let it be. When you attempt to do everything from scratch, you will not only despise Thanksgiving, but everyone that is present.

     

    We Like Lists Because We Don’t Want to Die

    Wise words from a wise man.

    Here’s the thing about lists: They’re pretty much the most amazing thing on this planet.

    Think I’m joking? I’m not.

    Here is an example of a list that can help make this day less… You can keep it in plain sight so you can always see it. They make matters more orderly, and every time you complete a task, you can check it right off.

    Most Importantly, Don’t Freak Out!!

    My mother took down all the windows in her house the year she was hosting. Believe me; nobody noticed the spotless windows and how squeaky clean they were except for her.

    If kids are attending, plan a few activities, or you can even involve them in helping with the setup and clean up.

    This is your four day weekend so that grants you the right to overdrink, overeat, and oversleep. We have to overdo it on this day, you guys, as it is our patriotic duty.  Once you’re done with the dinner and everyone’s settled down, take turns on why you are thankful.

    Really, it’s a day where we get to remember how blessed and lucky we are and how so many people around the world don’t have the privileges we do.

    Once everyone gets up to leave and thanks to you for a great dinner, you can cuddle up under your blankets and convince yourself that you will never host another party again.

     

  • Taylor & Daniel

    Taylor & Daniel

    How did you meet?

    Danny and I actually met online. It’s silly to think back on now. I had just moved from California and Danny just moved back to his Hometown Wimberley, TX. We were both at the time NOT looking for anything serious and 5+ years later we’re married. He was very persistent when we were started texted one another. I was caught off guard by his wanting to be a gentleman and get to know me. His last name is Happley so it only seemed appropriate to give this fairytale Prince a chance.

    First or favorite date?

    Our first date was funny. He asked me what I wanted to eat and I randomly tossed out the idea of Fish Tacos and beer. Danny said he knew the best place in town and told me to meet him after work there. It was Lavaca Street Bar in Austin, TX. I showed up in rain boots and a scarf even though it was like 85 degrees outside. It had been raining earlier that day and of course, typical Austin forecast changed in two seconds leaving me with no option but to wear that. So naturally, I showed up nervous and slightly sticky from the humidity. We instantly kicked it off. I don’t think we stopped laughing, smiling, or even talking that night. Our topics were wide range and some deep which looking back was a bit unique for a first date. As we walked out he put his arm around me and it didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. It was when he kissed me and ran away leaving me hanging that I thought hmm that’s how it’s going to be huh?

    I don’t necessarily have a favorite date. With Danny, all of our experiences were pretty much firsts for either myself or him. I was learning about a new State and trying to build my career. He was raising his daughter and building his. So as our relationship bounced along we did things together. It was never about needing a truly expensive date or having to do something lavish. It was about having fun together. We went paddleboarding, fishing, he introduced me to Sushi, locally vacationed, he introduced me to his daughter, attended rodeos, went to theme parks, bar hopped, and tubed down the Blanco River all in the first 6 months we dated. The second week we were officially dating was Valentine’s Day and he surprised me. He showed up at work with a card, sushi, and a dozen cupcakes. SOLD right? I was smitten by him just by his wanting to love and care for me.

     

    How did he propose?

    Danny had actually been out of town on a medical mission trip in Guatemala but before he left he mentioned keeping the Sunday he got home open. I just thought he wanted to spend time together with myself and Madi, his daughter. That morning we put plans together to go to the drive-through zoo and play with the animals. I thought that was good enough. Then we randomly stopped by a nail salon- his idea and on the way home, he mentioned that we had plans. I assumed it was dinner plans in a place that we had never been to before. Danny wouldn’t budge when I kept pushing him. That car ride seemed LONG. When we arrived at this gated home I never had been too I was a bit confused until I saw the helicopter! I still was too caught up in the moment to even think this whole day was set up for a proposal. I thought the helicopter ride WAS the surprise. Should have been a sign when the man helping strap me in told me that I needed to talk very close to the mic in order to be heard on the trip. We floated through the sky for a while before we hovered over Montesino Ranch, our wedding venue, that’s where he proposed! The little sneak had actually secured our venue and wedding date weeks prior to our helicopter ride. I guess it’s a good thing I said yes! He couldn’t even hear me say yes the first few times I said it because I hadn’t listened and wasn’t saying it close enough to the mic. The whole thing is on video. We landed after a while (and lots of motion sickness on my part looking down at my sparkling finger) and had champagne chilled waiting for us. The best part was that we got to share the experience with our daughter. I love looking at photos from this day because I can feel the excitement and butterflies all over again.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    There were three very challenging things for me. One was wedding planning without my Mom and all my bridesmaids in the same state. Danny and I styled and made most of our wedding so it was difficult without close ones to help at times. Two we also live in a very small town so rehearsal dinner was a challenge finding a place to host it with our guest count. Ultimately we just held it on our property and it was beautiful. Three playing tango with the wedding. I honestly could care less if it rained out our day because I was getting married regardless and I can’t control the weather, but I felt bad for those who had traveled distances to be there to enjoy a muddy rainy day on our behalf. It RAINED and FLOODED the day of our wedding. We had to implement Plan B, but when it came time for things to begin the Rain halted. I like to think it’s a sign and that all those sayings about rain being good luck on your wedding day were true. 

     

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    Father’s Day the year before Danny wanted to spend time by the River. Montesino offers cute lodging on their Ranch with River access. The very first night we went and watched the sunset from the pavillion area and the view sold us. We both knew that ultimately when we married it would be there. I just didn’t know he would actually secure a date before I said yes!

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    You gain advice from married people in your life prior to your wedding about what they found to be important or helpful the day of. My brother and sister in law said the best thing they ever did on their wedding day was take 15 minutes after the ceremony to themselves. So after our ceremony was over we hopped into our Landcruiser with our photographer and drove off for a bit. We had popped a bottle of champagne and just absorbed the moment together. It was the calm after the storm and the first time that day that I took a deep breath. It set up the rest of the wedding for me and gave us those few precious moments together without distraction. When we entered the reception I also enjoyed looking at all of our guests over the twinkling lights. I loved to see that they all came to support and love us on our big day. That’s kind of a big deal.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    It has made it SO easy! I wasn’t sure really where to begin before. I, of course, looked on Pinterest and scrolled through online make easy situations but it was still confusing figuring out where to start. I also didn’t realize how many things actually involve your name and changing your name. We live pretty far away from local offices involved with name change scenarios, without HitchSwitch I probably would have started in the wrong place and wasted a lot of time bouncing between offices and driving for no reason. I greatly appreciate this service. I’ve already suggested it to some girlfriends who have recently gotten married or are about to get married! Thank you.

  • Classic Wedding Movies To Watch

    Classic Wedding Movies To Watch

    Father of the Bride

    It may be the happiest day of YOUR life, but this 1991 Rom-Com with Steve Martin just goes to show you what every parent has to go through on their baby girl’s big day. Get ready to cry, laugh,  and call up your folks to let them know just how much you genuinely love them.

    My Best Friend’s Wedding

    Remember when you were younger, and you convinced your best friend that if you both weren’t married in ten years, you’d just marry each other?

    Me neither.

    Julia Roberts stars along some of the best actors and actresses in Hollywood to teach you one of life’s cruelest lessons: We don’t always get the happy ending we dreamed of and sometimes our soulmates…have other soulmates. Get ready for a reality check and learning to cope with disappointment.

    Wedding Crashers

    Pretty self-explanatory title. John and Jeremy (played by Owen Wilson and Vince

    Vaughn) are best friends who know exactly what (and who) they want. Little do they know what fate has in store for them. Love may be blind, but it’s also unexpected, cruel, and can appear in the most unlikely of places. Ready to laugh your ass off from start to finish? This is the movie for you.

    Bridesmaids

    I know in reality bridesmaids aren’t like this, but I can’t help but feel like they should be! Kristen Wiig dominates as Annie, a character whose life is total chaos and somehow keeps getting worse as she finds out her best friend is getting married. Make sure to invite all your lady friends and join the craziness that is Bridesmaids. And for God’s sake, somebody bring margaritas!!

    Bride Wars

    What happens when the wedding planner schedules you and your best friends wedding on the same day and same venue? Well, apparently that’s not your best friend anymore. You are officially bitter rivals! I mean, c’mon, you’ve been dreaming of this day since you were probably… I don’t know… five? And there will be hell to pay of someone’s even thinking of stealing your thunder. Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson in bride wars, who will come out victorious?

    My Big Fat Greek Wedding

    Finally, a film where cultures clash. This entire film is simply funny, romantic, and irresistible. Follow Toula as she follows her heart while trying not to disappoint or upset her strict traditional Greek parents. This film is well written, very entertaining, and goes to show you that no matter how different someone is, love will always prosper.

    The Wedding Date

    What’s the surefire way to make your ex-fiancee green with envy at your half sister’s wedding? Well, you hire Dermot Mulroney to pose as your lover, duhhh!! That way, everyone in the room is jealous! What can I say about this film other than to get ready for some jaw-dropping surprises!

    Also, keep in mind the quote: Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth. -Buddha, who apparently didn’t trust too many people

    The Wedding Singer

    What hurts more than being abandoned at the altar? Having a job that requires you to sing at them! We all know Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore to make fantastic collaboration, but this by far is one of their best. Heartbreak, forbidden love, and great music. This is the perfect movie to watch when you need some cheering up and a good laugh.

    Mamma Mia!

    It always seems like no matter what role she plays, Amanda Seyfried is always on the hunt for someone. A man, a wolf, and this time, her father. The beautiful cinematography of the film will have you wishing you were on vacation in the Greek islands, where the film takes place. Before her big day, Sophie invites three of her mother’s past lovers and is determined to find out who her father is. Hey, someone needs to escort her down the aisle! Get ready for an all good feeling and fantastic music that will have you on your feet for the duration of the film!

  • Ashley & Mike

    Ashley & Mike

    How did you meet?

    At a party Columbus Day weekend 2011 at Babson College! He was a senior at the time and I was a junior. He was captain of the hockey team and I was on the volleyball team. Campus is usually empty since it’s a long weekend and everyone leaves, but because we were both in season we had to stay on campus. The hockey team had a party that I went to with some friends and the rest is history!

    First or favorite date?

    Any time that we travel together is the best. Does that count? It’s like one long date! We’ve been to so many places and I can’t wait to continue exploring. It such a great way to disconnect from other people and focus on the two of us. Mont Tremblant is a favorite as well as Italy!

    How did he propose?

    On the frozen Lake Tremblant in Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada. We were away for the weekend and had just finished dog sledding (so fun!!) and he asked if I wanted to take a walk in sub-zero temperatures (literally!).

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    The little things! Finding a veil, a chuppah and choosing table linens.

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    Mike actually found it! We were married at the Pierce House in Lincoln, Massachusetts. We wanted somewhere local to where we live that was unique and had the ability to be outside.

    What’s your favorite memory from your wedding day?

    Our first dance. We took 4 lessons before the wedding and practiced SO much- but totally forgot everything that night. We surprisingly didn’t panic but instead had so much fun making up our own steps on the spot.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    Having all of the forms in one place is SO helpful! No searching a million websites and wondering where to start. The staff has also been super helpful and quick to respond in answering so many questions!

     

  • Adventurous Destinations for Adventurous Couples

    Adventurous Destinations for Adventurous Couples

    No matter who you are or where you are in the world, seeing the world is a must. Other than expanding one’s horizon, traveling is important because it provides you with a better perspective on life, on how other people are living. You get the chance to see new things, change your mindset, ideate, observe, and educate yourself on the place’s culture, food, people, and history.  Are you ready to feed your soul with the adventures of the world? Read on.

    Cappadocia, Turkey

    Hot air balloon rides, underground cities, hotel caves, magical sunrises from rooftops.

    Known for its magical “fairy chimneys,” Cappadocia attracts people from all over the globe because of its unique moonlike geological features. There are 36 underground cities here in Cappadocia so you can be certain your stay will be unpredictable, educational, and exciting. You and your partner can go on a one-hour hot air balloon ride just so you can see for yourself why Cappadocia is referred to as “another planet on earth.”

    Whether it’s hiking, biking, camping, or just sightseeing, this is the place that will leave a mark on your soul, and you will never forget it.

    Great Wall of China

    We know the Great Wall of China as…the Great Wall of China.

    It’s a wall that goes on for over 5000 miles so one can’t help but think what is there to do other than walking? We don’t really get the chance to see what goes on this five thousand mile wonder but I can tell you now hiking isn’t the only thing you get to experience. There are several activities including walking at night, camping, have a picnic, running a marathon, and taking a roller coaster cart down those steep hills.

    Can you do all that on a wall? Yes! How else are you going to gain the full China experience? I mean when you tell someone you’re going to visit China, it’s obvious 99% of the time you’re going to see the wall, but how often do you get to say “I camped on the Great Wall of China and ran a marathon” ??

    Read more about the activities here.

    Macchu Picchu

    A name that is known all around the world. This reserved and ancient destination is set in the Andes Mountains in Peru and was home to the Incan people. For all my history majors, this is a must for your bucket list. A mysterious and lost city built of stones and rocks? It’s every archaeologist’s dream! Other than the sacred underground temples and several trails, there are llamas everywhere (WHAT?! A Llama?! He’s supposed to be dead!).

    And let’s be real, who doesn’t love those? Make sure to stop for some Peruvian food before hiking up the mountain! It’s a long way to the top, but that’s how you know the view’s going to be breathtaking.

    Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

    I read New Zealand, and I immediately thought of lakes, botanical gardens, and mountains covered with snow. The thing is, you never really hear about New Zealand, it’s like the middle child who sits there in the corner and minds its own business while everyone else starts shit and builds walls. Waitomo is known for its extensive underground cave systems and its glowworm caves.

    You read right, glowworms.

    They inhabit these caves, and you get to ride in a boat underground so you can see this.

    Now if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try black water rafting. There’s more than one way to explore these underground water caves, and you’ll agree that they are indeed a sight to behold. Once you get above ground, you can go for walks, have a cup of coffee at a cafe, snap a pic of the beautiful Marokopa Falls, and even head to see some of the country’s rarest birds.

    Mosquito Bay

    Mother Nature strikes again. Honestly, just when you thought you’ve seen it all, here on the island of Puerto Rico is a bioluminescent bay (Isla de Vieques). Don’t let the name scare you off, because this is one of the most beautiful destinations that will end up on your bucket list. There’s bioluminescent plankton living in these waters that cause a chemical reaction and phosphoresces when your hand or anything else hits the water. Basically, the water glows like Rapunzel’s hair.

    This is an experience that will leave you so breathless that the only way to define the adventure is magical.

    If Pixar’s Up has taught me one thing, it’s that adventure is out there. So what are you waiting for? It’s adventure time! And I don’t mean the show.

     

    All photo right and credits reserved for the respective owner(s).  

  • Nicole & Angad

    Nicole & Angad

    How did you meet?

    We met in 2008 at a local ice cream store in the town I grew up in. My best friend was dating someone who worked there and he was friends with my husband who happened to be at the ice cream store that night visiting. We had stopped by on the way home from the gym and never thought he was even remotely interested in me. But, on the way home my best friend got a text asking for my number. We have bonded over ice cream dates ever since!

    First or favorite date?

    I think one of our very first dates was the movies. I was 16 at the time, so going to the movies with a guy was a big deal!

    How did he propose?

    My sister was moving into her first apartment in New York City the weekend of August 4th 2017 and my husband and I decided to drive up from Northern Virginia to help her move (plus it was an excuse to visit a city we both loved). I picked a restaurant to go to dinner that Friday night and we dressed up and went to dinner like we typically did. Afterwards, he told me we were going to meet one of his friends in Long Island for a drink but needed to wait a little bit since he was busy. The uber dropped us off at Gantry Plaza Park in Long Island City and we walked out into the pier, to take some photos of the New York City Skyline and kill some time. I remember him bluntly asking if I was done taking photos and then asking myself “hm that’s strange.” He then pulled out an umbrella and opened it as I was showered with rose petals and then all of a sudden he was down on one knee! When I said yes, I heard a bunch of clapping. It was a public pier and there were a lot of people around, so I just thought it was random people. I turned around to find two of my best friends standing there, who also drove up from VA, my sister, and some of my husband’s best friends. Still in shock, I asked if my parents knew. Turns out all of our family was watching live in real-time on Periscope. It was one of the best nights of my life and I had no idea that night was going to be the night he proposed!

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    The most difficult part of wedding planning was planning two weddings! My husband is Indian so instead of mashing together our visions, we decided to have two separate weddings a month apart in two completely different states. Our traditional Indian wedding was in August and our traditional American wedding was in September. It was a lot to handle, but I have such distinct memories from each event now and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    For the Indian wedding, we were looking for something that could accommodate a large group of people (we had over 200 guests) but wasn’t the traditional venue everyone in the area had their reception.

    For the American wedding, it came down to availability and price. Getting married on Martha’s Vineyard can be challenging when it comes to venues, but the Yacht Club we went with could not have been more perfect. We had an intimate ceremony on the beach with the most beautiful sunset.  

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    Walking down the “aisle” in both ceremonies! For the Indian wedding, I walked into the temple with my parents and my husband’s back was towards me. When he turned around all my nerves just melted away.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    After planning two weddings and buying a house in the same year, to be honest, I was just so tired of figuring things out! HitchSwitch made it easy with the click of the button. All the paperwork was sent to me with detailed instructions and stamped envelopes. If I have a question, the concierge is there to answer any questions I may have.  We will be together 10 years this Christmas and I’m so ready to finally take his last name!

    Martha’s Vineyard Wedding Photography
  • Katelin & Ryan

    Katelin & Ryan

    How did you meet?

    We met through a friend at a concert at Antone’s (local Austin, TX venue).

    First or favorite date?

    Any live music!

    How did he propose?

    Our dog was dressed in a tuxedo, rose petals leading up the stairs and there he was all dressed up with flowers and a ring!

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Registering!

    How did you decide on a wedding venue?

    Our venue, Mercury Hall, is down the street from our house. A sweet white venue with stained glass that was a church in the 1900’s in Mercury, TX and transferred to Austin in the 70’s.

    What’s your favorite memory from your wedding day?

    Our ceremony. We wrote our own vows, which I was originally hesitant about, but I’m so glad we did and get to cherish those promises forever.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    I would have had no idea where to even begin without HitchSwitch! It lays out all the steps and you feel secure you have completed your name change thoroughly.