We hope that our open adoption will be built on a foundation of respect and a clear understanding of each other’s needs and wishes. After taking open adoption courses and learning from friends who have gone through this process, we have a strong sense of how meaningful and rewarding an open adoption can be.

We have also had the opportunity to speak with birth mothers who placed their children for adoption and, years later, still maintain relationships with the adoptive families. This is the kind of connection we hope to build, one that is supportive, respectful, and focused on what is best for the child.

We know that navigating an open adoption will take effort and communication, and that there will be moments of uncertainty and emotion. By approaching it with openness, clear expectations, and mutual respect, we believe this process can be a joyful experience for everyone involved especially for the child. Our goal is to create a loving, connected environment where the child feels secure, proud of their story, and supported by the many people who helped build their family.

Vermont is without a doubt our favorite vacation spot. Bryan has been traveling there with his family since he was 5 years old, and Zach has proudly joined the tradition since 2012. What began as a small family getaway has grown into an annual tradition that now includes more than 15-20 family members each summer.

Our week in Vermont is centered around family and simplicity. We spend our days on the lake, hiking, enjoying the outdoors, and intentionally unplugging from technology. It’s a time to slow down, reconnect, and truly enjoy one another’s company. Many of the other families at the camp have been attending the same week for years, so friendships have grown alongside us, creating a strong sense of community and belonging.

Vermont represents everything we value most: family, nature, tradition, and meaningful connection. We look forward to continuing this special tradition and sharing these memories and experiences with a future child.

Our dream for the future child is for them to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, and to grow into a kind, compassionate person who makes a positive impact on the world. We hope they will feel empowered to follow their passions, chase their dreams, and use their unique gifts to create change and bring joy to others. We know that with guidance, love, and support, our child can truly make a difference. We want them to always feel our unconditional love, to know that we are there for them on tough days, and to understand just how important they are not only to us, but also to their birth mother and family. We can’t wait to see the amazing ways the child will grow, learn, and shine. Our hope is to nurture their curiosity, confidence, and sense of purpose, while celebrating each milestone along the way. We are excited for the future and can’t wait to watch the child make their mark on the world and in our hearts.

We have been together for over 12 years, and our family has always been a part of our story. We are fortunate to have family that lives as close as a few miles or just a short car ride away. One memory that will always stick out to both of us is our destination wedding in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands. We wanted to keep our wedding small but still have an adventure. The attendance from both sides was humbling and a reminder of what an incredible support system we have. Some family was meeting for the first time, while others picked up right where they left off since the last time they saw each other.

Our nephew was our best "little" man, and we had our sisters by our side for the ceremony. We spent our time playing on the beach with cousins, dancing with aunts, uncles, and long-distance friends. Everyone in our family knows about our desire to be fathers and they support it whole heartedly. Zach has family who was lucky enough to have three children placed in their care and they have been a shining example for us through this journey. If the opportunity arises to have your child join our family, they will be loved and embraced with open arms.

We feel incredibly grateful to live in a community that truly supports family. Throughout the year, our town hosts many events that bring neighbors together including one of the largest tree lighting ceremonies in the area around the holidays. Just ten minutes away, a large vibrant city offers festivals, parades, farmers markets, and monthly celebrations that highlight culture, food, and the arts. There is always something happening, and we look forward to creating traditions and memories as a family!

Our neighborhood is welcoming and family-oriented, with several families nearby whose children would grow up alongside ours. Even closer, our extended family is just five minutes away. Our sister lives on 5 acres next to a beautiful farm with horses, open fields, and an in-ground pool, a place where cousins gather, play, and spend long summer days together.

Our home sits on just under half an acre and offers a warm, inviting space to grow. It’s a three-bedroom rancher with a cozy, half-finished movie room in the basement where we imagine family movie nights and pillow forts. We have a large open kitchen for cooking and gathering, and a fenced-in yard where our dogs play and children can safely explore. Just around the corner is a newly renovated playground by the river a place we can easily picture little feet climbing, laughing, and making lifelong memories.

First, we want to say thank you. Thank you for taking the time to learn about us and for considering such a brave and loving decision. We cannot begin to imagine the depth of emotion you must be feeling, but we want you to know that we see your strength, your courage, and your love. No matter what you decide, we already have so much respect for you.

Our names are Zachary and Bryan, and we have been together for over 12 years. Throughout those years, we have built a life rooted in love, laughter, commitment, and unwavering support for one another. We recently celebrated our marriage in St. Thomas, surrounded by over 55 of our closest family and friends, a moment that reflected the strong foundation and community we are so grateful to have. Family means everything to us. We have watched our sisters grow their beautiful families, and now we feel in our hearts that it is our turn to become dads.

We have always known that adoption is how we are meant to grow our family. It is the path that feels most natural and meaningful to our lives. We are ready physically, emotionally, and financially to welcome a child into our home and our hearts.

We live in our forever home, a warm and happy space filled with love (and two very cute pups who can’t wait to have a little one to follow around). Our home is full of laughter, hangouts with extended family, holiday traditions, backyard barbecues, and quiet nights spent together. We promise that a child will grow up surrounded by encouragement, stability, and unconditional love. We will read bedtime stories, cheer at every game or recital, help with homework at the kitchen table, and be there for every milestone big or small.

Most importantly, the child will always know how deeply loved they are not only by us, but by you. We promise to speak of you with gratitude and respect. We promise to honor your role in their life and to ensure they understand the incredible love that brought them into this world. We believe it truly takes a village, and we are committed to maintaining open communication in whatever way feels right to you. Through letters, photos, phone calls, or visits throughout their life, we are ready and willing to nurture a relationship that keeps you connected and supported.

We know this journey is not simple. It requires trust, vulnerability, and tremendous courage. Please know that if you choose us, we will walk this path with honesty, compassion, and open hearts. We are hoping to have your approval in giving a child a beautiful, opportunity-filled life.

We have so much love to give. We dream of teaching our child kindness, resilience, and empathy. We want to show them the world, support their passions, and give them every opportunity to grow into exactly who they are meant to be. We will celebrate their individuality and stand beside them through every chapter of their life.

You are part of this story. Without you, none of this is possible. We are endlessly grateful for your consideration and for the strength it takes to explore adoption. If you choose us, we promise to honor your trust every single day.

With love, respect, and open hearts,

Zachary & Bryan