Hi trainers. I’m mixing it up and starting a new series – Positivity Corner! I’d love to bring a little bit of joy to our corner of the internet by spotlighting your incredible Pokémon GO stories. If you’ve got a story you would like to share, read to the end to see how you can get in touch.
Let’s get right into it with our first heartwarming story. A huge thank you to Ryan (X/@HEX_Manifesto) and Alaetra (X/@LaeSnaps) for sharing!
Ryan and Alaetra’s Story
In an inspiring tale of love, photography, and Pokémon GO, Ryan and Alaetra found each other through the augmented reality (AR) community of the popular mobile game. The couple’s journey, which began with themed photo contests and evolved into an international romance, is sure to put a pep in your step today.
The story began in 2018, a significant year for the AR enthusiasts in Pokémon GO. The small but tight-knit community on Instagram frequently engaged in weekly contests, showcasing creative AR photos of Pokémon. It was during one of these contests that Alaetra first noticed Ryan. He had chosen a unique theme: making the entire photo black and white except for the Pokémon, which remained in colour. This creative twist caught Alaetra’s attention, marking the start of a casual online friendship.
By October 2019, both Ryan and Alaetra were single, and their interaction intensified when Ryan sent Alaetra a direct message, boasting about his skills in throwing excellent throws on Gastly. This simple yet endearing message led to daily conversations, sharing Pokémon GO achievements, and even Netflix shows together. Their connection deepened quickly, and by November 2019, they were officially in a relationship.
Their first in-person meeting was in February 2020 in Charlotte, NC. Ryan showed Alaetra around the city, and naturally, they played Pokémon GO together. However, the COVID-19 pandemic soon struck, shutting down borders and putting their visits on hold. It wasn’t until September 2021 that they reunited in Charlotte. This visit was particularly memorable as it coincided with the introduction of Inkay into Pokémon GO. The couple spent time at the Outer Banks, catching Inkay by the ocean.
A pivotal moment in their relationship came on September 10, 2021. Ryan proposed to Alaetra in a creative and heartfelt manner, using a pack of Pokémon cards. He had secretly inserted a fan-made card that read, “Will you marry me?” into a pack of Shining Fates, which they opened on a livestream for friends and family. The AR community joined in the celebration by posting congratulatory photos featuring Vulpix and Alakazam, their favourite Pokémon, on Instagram.
While waiting for the visa process to conclude, Ryan visited Canada in 2022. The couple explored Niagara Falls and participated in the Adventure Week event in Pokémon GO, catching numerous fossil shinies. Later that year, Alaetra returned to Charlotte for the Halloween event, where Ryan caught three shiny Vulpix with costumes, generously trading two to Alaetra.
Despite not being able to visit each other in 2023 due to ongoing visa procedures, the couple’s perseverance paid off. Alaetra received the approval to move to Charlotte in February 2024, and they were married in March.
Reflecting on their journey, Alaetra credits Pokémon GO and its AR community for bringing them together. “Without Pokémon GO, our paths wouldn’t have ever crossed, but because of this app, I found my forever,” she said.
Ryan and Alaetra’s story is a testament to how technology and shared passions can unite people across borders, creating bonds that transcend physical distances.
Share your Story
If you or anyone you know has had an incredible experience/life changed due to Pokémon GO, we would love to hear your story! You can email me at [email protected] to get in touch. We can’t wait to hear from you.
