Our Story
Chris and Natalie’s love story began in 2015, when both were in their early 20s working as bartenders, paying their way through school, and still discovering themselves.
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They met the old-fashioned way, in person. It was Saturday night in 2015, Chris was behind the bar at Rustic Root, a lively new spot in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. Natalie was out with friends, and in true Natalie fashion, she made the first move on Chris. After sparking a conversation, she asked if he was single and slipped him her number. Chris waited a few days before calling, and soon they found themselves on a first date at Shore Club in Pacific Beach. On their second date, Chris wanted to share a passion of his with Natalie and took her on a speedboat ride through downtown harbor San Diego. Adventure, fun, and new experiences quickly became the foundation of their relationship. A photo taken under the iconic Sailor’s Kiss statue captured the spark that had already taken hold.
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In those early years in Pacific Beach, Natalie was finishing her degree at San Diego State, and when she wasn't studying, she was picking up every bartending shift, including commuting weekend nights to Palm Springs to work at Beer Hunter. Chris was building his entrepreneurial venture, Day 1 Collective, and studying at Mesa College before transferring to SDSU. Their bond grew as Natalie introduced Chris to her family and hometown traditions, including his first Coachella campout in 2016. Meeting her dad and brother, Steve and Adam, and friends at Yard House became a milestone moment when Chris picked up the whole tab, determined to make a strong impression.
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Both Chris and Natalie naturally gravitated toward sales careers. Over time, they each moved into software sales, building parallel careers that gave them a deep understanding of the grind, the pressure, and the thrill of closing deals. Their hard work has helped them pursue passions like boating, wakeboarding, real estate investing, and travel. Both Chris and Natalie have achieved multiple President's club honors, but Natalie has earned 6 consecutive President’s Club trips. Chris always says she's the real sales talent, he's the lucky +1.
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Travel has always been a shared passion. Together, they’ve explored Mexico, Belize, Thailand, Australia, Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, the Dominican Republic, and St. Kitts and Nevis. For their 10-year anniversary in 2025, they explored Aruba. Chris and Natalie's happy place is a warm, white sandy beach with a beverage in hand.
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In 2022, the couple purchased their first investment property, and in 2023, they bought their first home in Bermuda Dunes, California. There, they launched a short-term rental business that continues to grow, especially after a major remodel. Their home has always been filled with love from their two cats Cocoa and Tiger, and dog Noodle.
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Their journey hasn’t been without hardship. In November 2023, shortly after buying their home, both Chris and Natalie lost both their fathers just three weeks apart in nearly identical circumstances. The pain of that season was immeasurable, yet it strengthened their bond and reminded them of what truly matters. Walking through loss together deepened their love and commitment to one another in ways they had never imagined.
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Now, after a decade together, Chris and Natalie are ready to step into marriage. A celebration of the trust, partnership, and perseverance they’ve already built. With gratitude for the families and friends who have supported them every step of the way, they look forward to a future filled with love, adventure, and shared dreams.
As Natalie’s father, Steve, said:
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“Love unconditionally—never have any expectations, and spread love, because it doesn’t cost a thing.”
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We can't wait to celebrate this moment and all the moments to come with each and every one of you.
