Uly + Ernesto: a monochrome winter engagement session at California sand dunes

We’ve come to learn that in this day and age our story is somewhat of an anomaly. We met the old-fashioned way when Ernesto bought me a drink from across the bar one December night. In a day where everyone is on dating apps, they think that’s actually kind of romantic. After spending the entire night talking, Ernesto walked me home and our love grew from there. Our first year together brought some hiccups. We met during the holidays. And, both being L.A. transplants, it wasn’t until February that we really started dating. April brought a break up—one that only lasted a week and was totally Ernesto’s doing if you ask me. It was a blessing in disguise.

Because of it we realized how much we truly wanted to be together. A couple of years later we moved in together, solidifying true love over arguments about home decor, debating over being a one or two dog household, and supporting each other through the highs and lows of life. Since early in the relationship Ernesto was ready for marriage. He was the first to say “I love you,” the first to bring up a wedding, and when it came to the proposal—everyone knew he would be the one to do it.

Ernesto had known for quite a while that he wanted to propose. He had been thinking about it for a couple of months. So when I said I wanted to go to Costa Rica for our annual vacation, Ernesto knew it would be the perfect spot. After getting the final approval from my mom, Ernesto bought and packed a beautiful gold ring to take with us on our Costa Rican vacation. He was advised by friends to propose early in the trip so that we could enjoy the rest of the vacation as a newly engaged couple, so Ernesto planned to do it as soon as we arrived. But, after an early, exhausting flight and some light bickering, he decided it was better to wait. So on the second day, after a day of hiking in the forest of Costa Rica, we headed back to the hotel to relax. As we sat on the balcony of the hotel, overlooking the massive Arenal volcano, and as the sun was starting to set, Ernesto asked me for my hand in marriage. And as the birds outside chirped away and the wind blew a cool breeze on their crying cheeks, I said yes. And it was truly a magical vacation after that.

Four months later, I decided it was my turn. So, on a random Sunday in our bedroom, I proposed back to Ernesto. And although we were already engaged, it was still an emotional, wonderful moment. And Ernesto said yes, as well.—Ulysses AKA Uly