Please join us for Love Fest 2026
Commemorating 25 years of marriage, 30 years together and a lifetime of community
(THAT'S YOU)!
Friday, Sept 18, 5:00pm
- Sunday, Sept 20, 2026
What is Love Fest?
For those who haven’t attended before, "Love Fest" is what our guests affectionately named our wedding 25 years ago.
Read why
In Sept. of 2001, after years of planning to create a magical weekend for our family and friends, something happened that changed everything: just days before our ceremony, 9/11 occurred. After confirming everyone was safe—Deb’s brother was in Manhattan, and members of my family were grounded mid-flight—we seriously considered canceling the wedding.
How could we celebrate, laugh, and dance in the middle of such tragedy?
Then, something incredible happened. Everyone who was scheduled to travel insisted they were still coming. As the airports reopened just days before the event, we all realized that celebrating love and human connection was exactly what we needed most. Instead of staring at tragic news on repeat, we gathered in a sacred place to heal alongside the coolest group of humans ever assembled.
Since then, we've invite our favorite humans every five years to keep that tradition alive, celebrate life, and restore our faith in humanity.
This year, we’re gathering at a brand-new spot that we think is the perfect place to unplug, tune in and look out over Puget Sound with family and friends, both new and old.
Simply put, Love Fest is an intimate gathering of our favorite people on Earth. It’s a space where we can all relax, celebrate, laugh, cook, share meals, meet new friends, tell stories, and—in our own small way—save the world.
No Gifts, Please
Celebrating with all of you is the best gift we could ask for—so please, no gifts!
Our Long-Awaited Weekend
We have been searching for the perfect spot to celebrate with all of you for years—ever since our 20th anniversary was thwarted by the pandemic!
Our wedding location at the Whidbey Institute is no longer hosting events. year's Love Fest hen we found this beautiful property, we thought we had landed the ultimate setup with endless room for everyone to gather and camp out under the trees. However, we recently learned that the location is governed by a strict HOA with firm rules.
HOA Rules & the Hot Tub
Speaking of hot water, there is a hot tub, so bring a suit and towel if you want to partake.
Basic rules to keep in mind:
No Camping or Tents
Tents and canopy structures aren't permitted on the property, so please plan an overnight stay elsewhere nearby.
Driveway-Only Parking
Only 10 cars fit in the driveway, and street or lawn parking is not allowed. Carpooling makes all the difference.
No Pets
Pets aren't allowed on the property or left in cars, so please make other arrangements for furry friends.
Hot Tub Reminder
There's a hot tub on site! Bring a suit and towel if you'd like to soak during the weekend.
Where to Stay Overnight
We have gathered information about options for spending one or two nights near the party. For full lodging details and to reserve one of the attic bunks, please call or text us.
If you would like to camp in your car, please let us know because space is limited in the driveway.
Tents are not permitted on the event property—but attic bunks, nearby camping, and lodging options are all just a click away.
Parking & Carpooling
Parking is limited at the house
Please carpool with friends (or new friends!) whenever possible.
There is a park and ride fime minutes away, and we have a deal with the Whidbey taxi company that will be offering rides for our guests.
Let's Match You a Ride
If you have extra seats in your car or need a lift, let us know so we can match you with like-minded riders. For parking and carpool details, please click the Parking tab in the menu at the top of this page.
No pets allowed on the property or in cars.
We're leaving our sweet Sadie girl with a friend for the weekend.
Moments from Our Journey
Take a look back at 25 years of marriage, 30 years together, and the friends who made it all possible.
Plan Your Love Fest Weekend
Choose a place to stay, arrange a ride, and lend a hand if you'd like—we can't wait to celebrate with you.
Find a Place to Stay
Attic bunks, nearby camping, and lodging options are all just a click away.
Arrange a Ride
With only 10 driveway spots, carpooling keeps the weekend easy for everyone.