Our Story
How it began/is beginning
2013
How we met
In August 2013, Alicia and Robert met on their first day of orientation for their Master’s program in Anthropology at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Robert’s first thought when he saw Alicia was, “I’m probably going to marry her.”
They were promptly warned not to date anyone in their cohort–after all, they’d be stuck with the same five people for two years. But with a shared love of anthropology, musicals, and comedy, they quickly became close friends.
-Robert’s first thought upon seeing Alicia
2013-2020
Different paths, same connection
Over the years, life took them in different directions. They dated other people, lived in different cities and countries, and yet somehow always found ways to stay in touch.
Through all the changes and distance, the connection they shared never faded. It was a friendship that endured across time zones and life chapters, waiting patiently for the right moment to become something more.
2020-2024
A Two-Week Visit Becomes Forever
When COVID hit, Alicia was living in Los Angeles and Robert in Tucson. Robert had planned to visit LA for a conference (which was, of course, canceled), so Alicia decided to make the drive to Tucson–because we heal in community, not in isolation.
She planned to stay for two weeks…
And somewhere between walks, learning ‘ukulele, conversations, jigsaw puzzles, crosswords in the park, and homemade meals, platonic friendship shifted into a loving partnership.
2020-2024
Building a life together
In October 2020, Alicia officially moved to Tucson and they’ve enjoyed building community, nourishing friendships, and co-creating a space and a future together.
Robert proposed in May 2024 while they were walking along Kailua beach, in Hawai’i where they first met. It was a full-circle moment—returning to where their story began, now ready to write their next chapter together.
Present
Our next chapter
From that first day of orientation in Hawai’i to building a life together in Tucson, every step has led us here.
We can’t wait to celebrate our love with all of you and begin the greatest adventure yet.