Some love stories arrive quietly, while others announce themselves with a pop—specifically, the pop of a Champagne cork. For Chase Lewis and Erika Medina, their story began exactly that way at the end of summer 2017, when two separate days spent with best friends unexpectedly led to the same destination: Nobu Newport Beach. Seven years later, it remains a favorite spot, not just for dinner, but for the memories that started it all.

 

From the moment they met—and over that now-legendary bottle of Champagne—Chase and Erika were inseparable. Conversation flowed easily, laughter came naturally, and it became clear they shared far more than a table at Nobu. They discovered a mutual love for social weekends, spontaneous plans, and being surrounded by friends. That first night felt less like an introduction and more like a continuation of something already in motion.

 

At the time, Chase was still relatively new to California. Originally from Dallas, Texas, he had been brought west for work not long before meeting Erika. Erika, a Southern California native, was already fluent in the Newport Beach lifestyle. Early in their relationship, the two leaned fully into coastal living by purchasing beach cruisers—setting the stage for one of their favorite chapters.

 

With Erika proudly playing tour guide, Chase was introduced to all of Newport Beach’s local gems. Bike rides quickly became a staple, whether cruising through the neighborhood, stopping for coffee, or heading toward the coast. One of their favorite rituals remains riding their bikes to The Wedge at sunset, where they can watch the sky change colors and feel the day slow down just enough.

 

Their shared love of food and atmosphere also helped define their relationship. Date nights often found them returning to beloved spots like The Cannery, Buddha’s Favorite, Fly’n Fish, and, of course, Nobu—where it all began. Beach days became another constant, often followed by long walks with their golden retriever, JB, a fur baby who fits seamlessly into their adventurous, social lifestyle. Sundays are often spent enjoying a cruise down PCH in their classic Mercedes convertible, enjoying coffee, sunshine, and great tunes.

 

Music has always played a meaningful role in their story as well. Their very first date was a live concert, setting the tone for years of seeking out live music, meeting friends for nights out, and saying “yes” to experiences that bring people together. Whether dancing in a crowd or enjoying a laid-back evening with friends, Chase and Erika thrive in moments filled with connection and energy.

 

This past August, their love story reached a new milestone. Over Labor Day weekend, during one of their annual trips with friends to Austin, Texas, Chase planned a proposal that was as thoughtful and authentic as their relationship. On an evening before dinner—just the two of them, ahead of meeting friends the next day—Chase popped the question overlooking the lush gardens at Hotel Magdalena, a favorite spot for the couple.

 

Erika recalls the moment as perfectly “them.” The words Chase used, the ring, the setting—it all felt deeply personal and true to who they are together. Simple, meaningful, and filled with love, it was a proposal that didn’t need spectacle to be unforgettable.

 

Still riding the high of their engagement, Chase and Erika set off on an “engagement moon” to Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi just weeks later. There, they leaned into rest, wellness, and togetherness. Mornings began with hot yoga and workouts, afternoons were spent lounging by the pool or snorkeling alongside sea turtles, and evenings were reserved for simply enjoying each other’s company in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

 

Now back home in Newport Beach, the couple has begun wedding planning and is looking forward to celebrating with family and friends at their engagement party this February. While details are still coming together, they share a love for the idea of a fall wedding—something that feels relaxed, warm, and reflective of the life they’ve built together.

 

As residents of Lido Isle and familiar faces around town, Chase and Erika’s story feels right at home in Newport Beach. It’s a love story built on friendship, shared adventures, and the belief that the best moments are often the ones spent together—whether biking at sunset, clinking champagne glasses, or planning the next chapter.

 

This February, as Stroll Lido celebrates love, Chase Lewis and Erika Medina remind us that sometimes, forever begins with a chance meeting, a bottle of Champagne, and the simple realization that you’ve found your person!