WHERE IT BEGAN
Though we officially started dating in the fall of our senior year, our story goes back a little further. We actually went on a date during sophomore year.
Fate (and Senior Year English) brought us back together. Conversations picked up, and a shared love for good music rekindled our connection. One day, Ryan suggested we see Red Hot Chili Peppers—but not without a little payback. As revenge for Izabella allegedly breaking his heart years prior, he charged her extra for the tickets. Little did he know, that was all the money she had in her bank account at the time. A costly night? Maybe. But, in hindsight, a solid investment.
That summer, they were inseparable—best friends who inevitably became something more. By November, it was official.
Through college, they tackled everything together—each playing to their strengths. While Ryan focused on building Rhino, Izabella took on his coursework. Then COVID hit, and with the world at a standstill, they found themselves working side by side—detailing cars through grueling 14-hour summer days. They somehow never got sick of one another.
That same support carried over in new ways. When it was Izabella’s turn to take a leap, Ryan was the one pushing her forward—encouraging her to start Studio Eleven11, knowing she had the vision and drive to build something of her own.
OUR ENGAGEMENT STORY
Ryan’s proposal was, in true Ryan fashion, a little spontaneous. Though he had the ring and intended to propose a week later, the moment couldn’t wait.
The evening started with a plan to meet their best man and matron of honor, Conor and Janessa, for dinner downtown. It seemed like a regular evening out, but on the way, Ryan casually suggested, “We’re early—are you down for a little adventure?” Without thinking twice, Izabella agreed.
As the drive continued, Ryan unexpectedly veered off the freeway, taking the MLK exit toward a park Izabella had never heard of. As they arrived, Ryan began sharing a story her Papa told him about a ship that had sunk in Lake Erie during World War II to create a second breakwall. Izabella, confused, asked, “How are we supposed to see that? We’re not that close to the water.” Pulling up Apple Maps, she pointed out that the park’s overlook was quite a walk away, reminding Ryan she was in heels and that the sun was already setting, suggesting they come back another time.
Ryan, undeterred, walked up the grassy path to the overlook, calling out about how beautiful the view was. Izabella, stubborn as ever, stayed by the car, responding, “Take a picture!”
After a few minutes, Ryan returned, gently pleading for her to join him. Reluctantly, she stepped out, teasing, “What is this, are you proposing or something?” Ryan’s quiet response made her pause, and she started to notice the little signs: his hands in his pockets (a habit he never had), his nervous energy, and his insistence. Half-joking, she blurted, “Empty your pockets!”
When he didn’t, it finally clicked: Is he proposing? Here? Why here?
Before she could think any further, Ryan dropped to one knee and revealed the truth. This wasn’t just any park—it was the very spot where her Papa had proposed to her Dah 65 years ago. A place with so much meaning, now made even more special.
Two days later, as if life had come full circle, the pair saw the Red Hot Chili Peppers for the third time (Ryan paid this time.)
