Natalie and Chris were destined to find each other, thanks to Natalie’s dear friend Kim and Chris’s brother, Nick. Their story sparked at Kim’s daughter’s swim lesson, where Nick overheard her mention her newly single friend and suggested his brother could be her perfect match. On October 3, 2022, Chris sent Natalie that first text—a small moment that ignited something big. Their desire to meet was immediate, but Natalie mentioned she’d be busy—her dog Penny had just been spayed. Chris, with his soft spot for dogs, and an eye on winning her heart, showed up the next day with toys and treats for Penny as she healed.

That week, they had their first date, and three magical days together followed, as if they’d known each other forever.

The year ahead was a blur of love. They escaped to Parker for Thanksgiving, a place they both had loved since childhood, and spent the holidays hosting parties and stealing quiet moments—like New Year’s Eve, just the two of them.

In April 2023, Big Bear became their backdrop when Chris whispered “I love you,” a moment Natalie had been dreaming of. At Stagecoach that same month, they talked about a future together—sharing a home, building a life. They’d always shared a dream of starting a family, even if it came before the vows (sorry, Mom!).

On May 29th, 2023 Natalie found out she was expecting, and the couple couldn’t have been happier – Chris dropped to his knees with tears of joy!

In July, they learned they were having a little girl, a dream come true. And finally, on September 22, Chris got down on one knee and asked Natalie to be his forever, and she said yes with all her heart.

The next year in February, they welcomed their daughter, Karsyn Taylor Kerstner, into the world—the sweetest gift of their love.

Now, Natalie and Chris are counting the days until June 7, 2025, when they’ll stand hand in hand and promise forever, surrounded by everyone they love and cherish.

It’s been a wild, beautiful ride, and they’re just getting started—madly in love and ready for every adventure ahead.