Erica and Katie connected through an exclusive, premium dating service (aka Hinge) in February 2023. After several reschedules and failing to look at a calendar, they accidentally planned their very first date on Valentine's Day!

Katie was in Los Angeles for only one year for surgical fellowship training, and Erica was navigating a recent move to Huntington Beach.

Despite two very busy schedules, they knew quickly their relationship was something special, and they made every effort to spend time getting to know each other.

They set up a Wednesday trivia date night at Riip Beer Co. in Huntington Beach. They found out they excel at musical and science trivia, and they don't know a single thing about baseball. In between the games, they learned each other's aspirations and laughed over their embarrassing stories.

They fell in love with each other - Katie loves Erica's spontaneity and kindness, and Erica loves Katie's big brain and bigger heart.

Katie graduated from her USC fellowship in July 2023. After a decade in southern California, Erica knew she was ready for something different. Katie accepted a job in Boise, Idaho, and they took the plunge on moving in together shortly before their six month anniversary.

Erica and Katie packed up everything and made the 14-hour drive (through a torrential downpour) to Idaho!

They had hardly unpacked before they got on a plane to Portugal for their first international vacation. Over the next week, they hiked mountains, rode an ATV around a volcano, drank wine made from pineapples, and discovered they're the best of travel partners.

A lot has happened since that trip. Erica took a new job. Katie learned to ski (with much encouragement from Erica). They celebrated Erica's first snowy winter together in Boise.

They flew all over the country to meet each other's family and friends (no, really, ask them how many flights they've taken in the last two years).

The families agreed - Katie and Erica are an incredible match.

On the beaches of Cabo, Katie asked Erica to marry her on July 27th, 2024.

The next morning, Erica teased, "Don't you wish you had your ring to wear, too?" On July 28th, 2024, Erica asked Katie to marry her.

Erica and Katie are thrilled to be planning their next adventure - their wedding. They cannot wait to celebrate with all their friends and family. See you in March 2025!!