In 2012, Chico and Asia both went on a Christian Ministry Trip to D.C., and few if any words were exchanged between the two during that week-long encounter. Asia's general impression of Chico was that he came off as mature, laid back, and there for the right reasons. Chico thought Asia was caring towards others, kind-hearted, and genuine. It wasn't until after the trip that Asia and Chico established a friendship. They remained platonic friends over the years and bonded every now and then over memorable events from the trip and mutual interests. As life got in the way, they eventually lost contact with each other. It wasn't until years later that they linked up to go on a solo adventure together. They finally made time to go hiking at Amicalola Falls State Park in GA right before Asia moved to South Carolina. Everyone in Asia's inner circle insisted they started going on dates, but she was convinced they were just 'adventures' (e.g., hikes, ziplining, mini-golf, fishing, etc.). Chico set some hard friendship boundaries and remained mysterious in his intentions. It wasn't until Chico started making more and more five-hour trips to South Carolina that eyebrows began to raise. After making his intentions clear, Chico suggested taking a week to pray before taking any steps forward to start dating. They spent time together studying God's word, learning from each others' experiences, and deepening their connection. Fast forward to about 9 years from that trip to D.C., Asia and Chico are excited to celebrate a love that grew out of such an extraordinary friendship, with God orchestrating their steps along the way.