Kaden and Erika’s love story started in a church class about how to witness to others—a class where, ironically, they didn’t say a single word to each other. For weeks, they sat in the same room, listening and learning, but never speaking. It wasn’t until the very last day of class that Kaden finally made his move. Summoning his courage, he introduced himself to Erika. Little did they know, that moment would plant the seed for their future.

What started as small conversations in group settings slowly grew into a budding friendship. They often found themselves in the same circles, laughing and talking more with each hangout. But everything changed on the day Kaden and Erika decided to play pickleball—alone. It was their first one-on-one hangout, and let’s just say Erika wasted no time making her mark. She beat Kaden in their one and only game (he insists it was beginner’s luck, but she knows better).

Afterward, instead of playing a rematch, they decided to take a walk, and that stroll turned into hours of deep conversation as they got to know each other like never before.

One of Erika’s favorite pastimes is going to the park to read or journal, so she began inviting Kaden to join her. What started as casual hangouts soon became a tradition of “park dates,” though neither of them realized at first just how much those moments were creating something special. They’d talk, laugh, and share their hearts under the shade of the trees, each park date drawing them closer.

Then one morning, Kaden decided to make his feelings official in the most charming way. He left a note on Erika’s car asking if she would be his girlfriend (because, let’s face it, how could she say no to such a sweet and thoughtful gesture?). And just like that, their friendship blossomed into a love story filled with laughter, love, and a lot more dates at the park.

And now, here we are today, celebrating a love story that began with silence in a church class, grew in a park, and has become the adventure of a lifetime.

E&K

Wedding Day