Brad and Clara met in the winter of 2022 through a dating app. Their first date at 3rd Act Brewery was filled with conversation, laughter, and amazement at the size of the brewery’s signature pretzels. For their second date, Clara spontaneously invited Brad to join a night out with her married friends. It was an unexpected but easygoing evening where they both let their guards down a little more.

From that point on, they spent more and more time together, officially beginning their relationship on March 8, 2022. That summer was full of adventure. They went camping every chance they got, spent days fishing and hiking, and ended many nights around the warmth of a bonfire. In October 2022, they moved into their first home together in South St. Paul, making it their own little haven.

Nearly two years later, on a stormy morning in July 2024, Brad suggested they go for an early hike at Willow River State Park. The rain was coming down hard, but Clara got in the car anyway, trusting Brad when he said, "It will clear up." Sure enough, the skies cleared just as they reached the park. They hiked up to the waterfall, climbed the long flight of stairs to the lookout, and as Clara turned to take in the view, she found Brad down on one knee.

He had planned everything. Watching from below were his sister Stephanie, brother-in-law Matt, and Clara’s sister Libby, ready to capture the moment and surprise her afterward. They spent the rest of the day celebrating with family, making it a day they would never forget.

Now, as they prepare to say "I do" this April, Brad and Clara couldn’t be more excited to celebrate with their closest family and friends. Their journey has been shaped by the love and support of those around them, and they are so grateful to share this special day with the people who mean the most.