Can you walk through an art museum calling out the artists from afar, or know the distinction between rocks and minerals at the Carnegie Museum of Art and History? These are just some of the many things we learned together during my evening with the Ryans. Their bond is both intimate, and yet inviting. A partnership embedded in balance and support for one another. Like granite, hard and steadfast, built to sustain any of life’s storms (a mineral and not a rock, by the way).

I learned that Ryans love to spend time together in all kinds of ways, including walking down to the gym for a nice workout. On the Stairmasters, you can find Ryan Wilityer briskly climbing while bopping to hip-hop AirPods. While Ryan Hamilton, works out by his side, although at lighter pace, stoically focused on his favorite podcasts. They are well-educated and lifelong learners who take pride in their professions but want to travel the globe and enjoy their lives.

This year has been a whirlwind. The Ryans recently bought their first house and are in the early stages of cultivating a garden that will rival Phipps Conservatory. The Ryans are delighted with their new home, optimistic about their future, and eager to celebrate their wedding day in the coming year.