I knew of Bryson well before we actually met in person, and he would tell you the same thing. His Aunt and Nanny both loved to play cupid. Bryson and I first met at his cousins wedding reception the week before COVID hit in March of 2020. We sat at the reception and talked for hours about any and everything. The next day, his aunt called my mom overjoyed to find us both talking for so long and joked about when the first date was. His aunt encouraged me to reach out to him to talk some more. So, I decided to follow him on Instagram to see if he would make the first move. He accepted and followed me back. Hours later I still hadn't heard anything. I messaged him how great it was to meet and talk. From there he asked for my number, and we started texting nonstop. Let me just preface by mentioning that Bryson is introverted, and I am extroverted. Finally, after four months of texting, I threw out the question of whether or not we should go on a date. Well let's just say, we stopped talking.

Fast-forward to 2020 and 2021 Bryson and I would occasionally snapchat but it never went any further. He focused on his degree as I focused on mine. Don't let that fool you though, both his aunt and nanny were trying to work their magic. Occasionally our paths would cross but we were both to stubborn (me) and shy (him) to do anything about it.

Now it is fall of 2022. Bryson is working full time and I am wrapping up my final semester of nursing school. The Sunday before thanksgiving I walk into church, and I knew in that moment things would change. Of all seats in the building, the one saved for me was right beside Bryson. I was incredibly nervous. We sat side by side avoiding each other at all costs. The next day our lovely matchmaker was at work trying to get us to talk. I put my foot down and refused to reach out again. That lasted all of 48 hours before I reached out to wish him a Happy Thanksgiving. From there he asked me out and we planned our first date.

2023 was a year full of many dates, adventures, ups and downs, and falling in love. It is also the year we started building our forever home in. We ended the year getting engaged in front of my dad's favorite Christmas tree in Williamsburg, VA. What a great whirlwind it has been!

I can speak for both Bryson and I when I tell you that when you know, you know. We both agreed that this has been the best year of our lives. We both regret not reaching out sooner but agreed that it was all in God's timing.

Bryson and I want to thank our family and friends for celebrating this special time for us. We cannot wait to see you all!

" For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11.