Our Story
Connor and Julia met in May of 2022, in what can only be described as a modern Hallmark movie: on Hinge. At the time, Julia was finishing up her year of service with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) and Connor was working on his PhD at ASU.
Connor and Julia felt their connection very early on, and knew quickly that their relationship was something special. The couple spent their first year together going on adventures, from traveling to Alburquerque for the Hot Air Balloon Festival, spending time in Sedona with the Nelsons, taking several trips to Rocky Point, and heading to NY to spend Christmas with the Hacks (where Connor was introduced to "Hack Family Football"). They frequently visited Papago Park to catch the sunset, and played in a local cornhole league with friends.
Unable to stay apart any longer, in July of 2023, Julia moved in with Connor at his apartment in Tempe. A few months later, on Friday, December 8th, Connor and Julia went to Papago Park to catch the sunset, as they often do. Unknown to Julia, when they climbed to the top, Connor (with the help of the Ottingers) had a surprise waiting for her. With the sun setting behind them, a romantic picnic spread, and a ring in his pocket, Connor got down on one knee and asked Julia to marry him. She said yes, and Connor kept her from falling off the rock in excitement!
Coincidentally, 28 years earlier, Julia's parents also got engaged: on Friday, December 8th, 1995. Connor and Julia have been inspired by the love stories of each of their parents, with the Nelsons married for over 32 years, and the Hacks for over 27 years. These enduring marriages have set a strong foundation for Connor and Julia's own relationship.
Together, Connor and Julia enjoy going dancing in Prescott, attending Church together on Sundays, taking walks to Dunkin, and spending time with friends. They are grateful for the love and support from their friends and family, and are excited to celebrate their love on May 10, 2025.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is a massive spawling city (5th largest in the US) in the middle of the desert. It's hot and dry, and the sunsets are amazing. Within the Phoenix metro area, there are several cities and towns, including Tempe (home to Connor, Julia, and ASU), Scottsdale (home to great shopping, dining, and all things bougie), and Phoenix proper (home to JVC's Casa Bart and sports teams including the Suns and Diamondbacks).
There are several great hiking spots, including Camelback Mountain and South Mountain. If you're looking for a day trip, Sedona is only a 2-hour drive away and is known for its red rocks and vortexes. Prescott is a 1.5-hour drive away and is a cute little western town with a historic downtown (the mayor unironically rides a horse in the Christmas parade); it is Connor and Julia's favorite day trip location. The Grand Canyon is also a 3.5-hour drive away and is a must-see if you've never been (Connor has never been despite living here his entire life). We hope you enjoy your time in Phoenix!
Things to Do
Tempe
- Catch the sunset at Hole in the Rock at Papago Park, where Connor and Julia got engaged!
- Explore Connor and Julia's neighborhood in Downtown Tempe by strolling around Tempe Town Lake and visiting Arizona State University.
- Enjoy a bite at Culinary Dropout and play a round of cornhole, where the couple had their first date.
- Visit Connor's favorite Dunkin'.
Phoenix
- Cheer on the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field or the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center.
- Enjoy some coffee at Fair Trade Cafe or grab a beer at Arizona Wilderness on Roosevelt Row, a fun neighborhood in Downtown Phoenix.
Scottsdale
- Wander through Old Town Scottsdale, with its shops, restaurants, bars, and more. Enjoy a scoop of ice cream at the Sugar Bowl!
Accommodations
We have not reserved a hotel block, so we encourage our guests to choose accommodations that best suit them; there are many great options in the Phoenix area!
Both the Church and venue are within a 20-minute drive of the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
While Phoenix's public transportation is not the best, Uber and Lyft are readily available and a great way to get around the city. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try out a self-driving Waymo car!
REAL ID
If you're flying to Arizona, please note that the REAL ID requirement goes into effect on May 7, 2025. Make sure you have the proper identification to board your flight.
