Theirs is a story of an awakening of new love, excitement, hope, disappointment, forgiveness, triumph over tragedy and faith. We share it to bring hope to someone who might need it, and to illustrate the goodness of God.

This is us on our first date. We took a 17-mile bike ride on the Creeper Trail. It was a good thing Denise suggested doing this when they first met because little did she know Richard don't ride bikes! HaHaHaHa They had a blast though. From that point on they were just always Richard and Denise.

Denise was born in Miami, FL and lived in Florida her whole life until she moved to Gray, TN in 2012. She moved out to the Stoney Creek area in the end of 2015 and became a member at Hunter First Baptist Church in 2016. Richard, being a long-time member there himself, and Denise did not meet right away. He served on the buildings and grounds committee; she served on the finance committee and counting team but they never seemed to cross paths. Not until December of 2017, when Richard would wait by the side door just to greet her before service. You wouldn't know it, but Richard was a flirt. But don't tease him, he got the girl! LOL If asked, they would both assuredly agree that God brought them together, and that it is absolutely His Will for them to be united as one. Their relationship began rooted in Christ and blossomed quickly. They were both quite smitten with each other and it appeared as though life together came easy to them. And it did, for a long time. But as with any relationship, their relationship faced trials, devastations, and some major setbacks. To be completely transparent, if the devil had had his way, their story would have had a completely different ending. The first part of John 10:10 tells us that the thief comes only to steal, and kill, and to destroy. And there is a chapter in their story that says he did exactly that. But they have exciting news to share! Their story didn't end! It continues, now as husband and wife. The second half of John 10:10 says that Jesus came so that we may have life; and have it abundantly! And just as Jesus rose up out of that grave, He resurrected their love and they are living life full again, together, and stronger than before!

Denise & Richard

We credit this wedding to our faith in God; to the firm foundation with which we were first established, and that it is His Will for us to be together. So, if you are facing something difficult, put on the full armor of God. You are not alone, and you have our support.

Can't wait to see you at our wedding and can't wait to walk down the aisle to the one God has chosen for me.

Denise