Originally from Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Will and Kristen traded snowstorms for sunshine when Will accepted a job in Arizona. “There was no way either of us was going to last one more winter in that tundra,” Kristen laughs. The couple made the move to Chandler shortly after dating, quickly falling in love with the city’s energy, charm, and central location.

Now engaged, they’ve settled into a quiet neighborhood they adore, just minutes from downtown, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa. Their home life centers around their two dogs, Bodiee and Ryder, who enjoy morning park visits and playdates with neighborhood pups. “We have such a great community here,” Will shares. “Everyone’s friendly, and there are two parks within walking distance that are super dog friendly.”

When it comes to local favorites, Will and Kristen have discovered plenty. “There’s a new Mexicano restaurant by Chandler Fashion Center that we’ve really enjoyed.  It’s literally called The Mexicano Chandler!” Will says. They also love brunch at First Watch, Chinese takeout from Happy Jade, and coffee runs to Quiches & Pies café, where, as Kristen notes, “the espresso is so smooth, there’s no need to add vanilla.”

Golfing has become one of Will’s favorite ways to explore Arizona’s scenic side. “This past summer, I played some of the top courses when rates were way lower,” he says. “Gold Canyon’s Dinosaur Mountain has unbeatable views, We-Ko-Pa is pristine no matter which course you play, Troon North is the hardest but in the best condition, and Raven is just an all-around fun course.”

The couple also loves heading north to Snowbowl during the winter months. “Being from Minnesota, it’s so different in the best ways,” Will says. “There’s an actual mountain with snow instead of little hills. We can ski for the day, drive back that night, and be playing pickleball or hiking the next morning.” Kristen, who only recently took up skiing, is already “handling hills like a pro,” Will adds proudly.

Active and entrepreneurial, Will co-owns Garage Force Southeast Valley, a local business providing premium floor coatings, while Kristen runs her own health coaching business. They can often be found on the pickleball courts at Arrowhead or Pecos Park, golfing with friends, or attending wine dinners. The Caymus dinner at Thirsty Lion was a standout.

Their best advice for newcomers? “Get out there and explore,” Will says. “Join groups, go to parks, play pickup. There’s so much this area has to offer. We’ve met some of our closest friends in the last few years here in Arizona.”