How did the two of you meet?
In college, at Seattle University. We both played soccer and shared the same friend groups. (Interestingly enough, John was the RA for the dorm where Anja’s boyfriend-at-the-time lived.)
Give us the proposal details! When? Where? How?
Anja’s favorite place has long been Stanley, Idaho, nestled in the valley of the Sawtooth Mountains. Last summer, she took John there for the first time for a 4th of July family vacation. He was instantly amazed and awed by it – the creeks and rivers running through, the natural hot springs all over, the rugged mountains in the background, and the small town vibrancy running through the town.
We’ve had more adventures, laughter, and love than we can even remember. She challenges and inspires me, and I see hope and courage in her. Her hiccups are ridiculous and her freckles adorable. We know the best of each other and now we’ll have the rest with each other.
This summer, Anja’s family was headed back there for a couple of days. After dealing with an unfortunate series of events regarding their new camper van breaking down, John finally got to Stanley with Anja, who had just completed a month-long rural medicine rotation as she finished her first year of medical school. After floating down the river with her family in the late afternoon, they returned to their cabin along the river. As the sun went down over the mountains, John pretended to want a photo with Anja, and then surprised her with the question as her whole family watched and cheered. A night celebrating in the little mountain town ensued.
What has been your favorite experience planning the wedding?
Thinking of ways to do things ourselves, nontraditionally. We’re exploring the ideas of camp chairs and picnic blankets for the ceremony, and a group BBQ cookout for dinner.
How do you stay sane under the pressures of wedding planning?
By keeping it all in perspective… or just avoiding it. No, but really, just by staying focused on the fact that it’s really all about the people that are there, and having a good time. Trying not to let the little things matter too much.
