Kia and Charles’ love story began in the bustling streets of New York City — a city alive with possibility. Yet, amidst the chaos of this city, we met in an unconventionally quiet place — the library. Kia habitually studied in the same area — where Charles would often “study” beside her, always managing to find the seat right next to hers.

Starting as friends in the same study group, but somewhere between books and coffee breaks, Charles became the person Kia looked forward to speaking to — irresistibly easy to talk to. Study sessions turned into walks home then lunch then dinner and dates. Chatting turned into hours long conversations about our hopes and dreams. Slowly, the girl he sat beside in the library became the person he didn’t want to be without.

One of our first hangouts consisted of a day of interviews for our summer internships. We ended up interviewing for the very same position and were both offered positions — two people, two interviews, one shared future quietly unfolding. We spent the summer working side by side; it felt like we were inseparable. Two young dreamers building futures, unknowingly building one together. Those early years we spent in law school became some of the most meaningful memories of our relationship, which we will cherish forever. Full of ambition, hope, passion, and friendship, those years shaped the foundation of who we are together —not just as a couple, but as best friends.

Three months after we started dating, we took our first trip as a couple — to Capri, Amalfi, Positano, and Naples, Italy. What was intended to be a fun summer vacation became the backdrop to the moments we felt this could last forever. Under the moonlight of the Mediterranean Sea, after long dinners filled with pasta and wine, we danced by the glistening water to the songs of Dean Martin classics. Charles sang about the “pizza pie in the sky” and we smiled together at lyrics celebrating a wedding ring on her finger — not knowing how prophetic those songs would feel one day. Somewhere between dancing in the moonlit streets, sharing pastries and espresso, and sitting on “our” bench overlooking the island of Capri, we fell in love.

As a testament to where our love began, six years later, Charles proposed as the Mediterranean sun set again in Amalfi, Italy at the renowned Monastero Santa Rosa — the cliffs glowing in hues of violet, light blue, and orange, the sea shimmering like glass below. With the horizon painted in pastels, he asked Kia to spend forever with him — returning to the very hills where they first imagined what forever could feel like. The evening was followed by a private, and very Charles, Michelin-starred candlelight dinner — a reflection of the love they built: intimate and intentional.

Our relationship has always been about partnership, meaningful conversation, goofy moments, and living il dolce far niente (“the sweetness of doing nothing”) — about finding joy not only in our grander travels, but in simpler moments together, walking our dog, Ghost, watching our favorite shows and movies, debating everything and anything for hours on the couch, shopping at our favorite stores, and eating way too much food. It has been about growing side by side since we were young and 23, and finding home in one another no matter where we are in the world. We hope you join us across the world as we share our love again, but now with you all, in Italy this June — in the very country which holds so many of our most treasured memories. We can’t wait to celebrate the beginning of this next chapter of our lives with you, and a love which began with two desks sat beside each other in a law school library.

FAQ

1. How many events are there and which ones are we invited to?

There are three (3) events and you are invited to all of them!

2. What is the dress code?

The Wedding: Formal/Black Tie Optional is requested. The wedding will take place in a formal setting, and we invite guests to dress accordingly. Elegant evening attire is requested for the ceremony and reception.

The Welcome Party: Cocktail attire is requested.

The Brunch: Casual attire is appropriate.

3. What airport should we fly into?

Please see our Travel page.

4. Where should we stay?

Please see our Accommodations page.

5. Do we need transportation to the wedding venue and welcome party?

Transportation will be provided by a shuttle service if you are staying in the Cernobbio/Como area. Please let us know if your accommodations are further.

Pick up times will be determined and then provided once we have all guest RSVPs so the shuttle may determine who gets picked up when and where to meet.

6. Will events be indoors or outdoors?

Our ceremony and cocktail hour will take place outdoors, followed by an indoor reception. Please plan attire accordingly.

While weather is not entirely predictable, Lake Como typically expects pleasant, warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 66-77 degrees in early June. We have been advised we can expect warmer weather during the day and cooler temperatures in the evening.

7. What is the best time to arrive and depart?

We recommend arriving by May 30, 2026 to enjoy the welcome event and departing on June 3 (or on June 2 if an earlier checkout before brunch works for you) after the weekend celebrations.

8. Do I need a passport or visa?

Yes, please ensure your passport is valid for three (3) months beyond your planned date of departure. A visa is not required. For more information, please check the US State Department’s website:

https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/italy.html?wcmmode=disabled

9. Are children invited?

We understand traveling without your children can be difficult. While our wedding events are primarily for adults, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kia or Charles, if bringing your children or arranging local childcare would make it easier for you to attend. We’re happy to help explore options.

10. Do you have travel recommendations?

Yes, for guests who would like to enjoy some local sightseeing, we recommend planning around the wedding events.

* May 30 (Arrival to Lake Como): If you arrive to Lake Como on this day, depending on your arrival time, you can use this day to settle in and begin exploring Lake Como.
* May 31 (Welcome Party): The morning and early afternoon can be used to explore Lake Como. Please note Welcome Party transportation will begin in the late-afternoon, and the party starting in the early evening. Please be mindful of traveling requiring a ferry to cross the lake.
* June 1 (Wedding Day): Transportation to the wedding will begin in the mid-afternoon, making this day best for local travel only, like exploring Como town.
* June 2 (Farewell Brunch): Brunch will occur in the late morning/early afternoon. Please consider your accommodation’s check-out time when planning your morning or departure. You may choose to check out before brunch. Most hotels allow you to store your luggage with them after check-out. If you have an Airbnb, please check with them regarding check-out time and luggage storage after check-out.
* June 3 (Optional Bonus Day): If you would prefer a more restful morning the day after the wedding and before brunch on June 2, you can choose to check-out on this day when all wedding events will be over. You can carry on with your journey after your check-out on this day.