Climbing to Forever: Carina & Darren’s Epic Engagement Adventure with Maple

Meet Carina and Darren, two adventure-loving weirdos who bonded over climbing holds and friendly competition. After 13+ years of climbing under their belts, they met at a climbing gym in Madison, WI - and it was game on from there. With a shared love for the outdoors, travel, and the occasional wine tasting, these two are the perfect match despite their opposites-attract tastes.

They’ve been calling sunny San Diego home since 2020, along with their adorable dog, Maple Donut (or just Maple for short). Maple’s basically the third musketeer on their many outdoor adventures.

The proposal? Oh, it’s epic. Darren popped the question on top of a Hawaiian peak at sunrise during their 5th anniversary trip in July 2024. Picture this: breathtaking views, the soft glow of dawn, and two souls ready to climb the next big peak together - marriage.

Carina is currently transitioning from her time in the USMC into a faculty role at a local college, while Darren’s busy crushing code as a senior software developer from their home office. Together, they balance the chaos and calm of life beautifully - with a whole lot of laughter and love.

What makes their love story so special? Their “go with the flow” vibes, their passion for climbing, and that sweet competitive spark that keeps things exciting. Two happy weirdos who found their forever climbing partner - and we’re here for it.

Here’s to many more climbs, travels, and game nights for Carina, Darren, and Maple!