Gianna and Jake’s friendship started off as just that—friends. They met during an internship in the summer of 2022. Very early on, Jake understood that their connection would stay in the friend zone. After graduating college and starting their careers, they realized how much they had in common—a shared faith in Jesus, hitting the gym at 6 a.m., and always being the first to raise a hand in group settings. Their commonalities helped them understand each other, but how they treated each other in difficult times made their bond stronger.


Last year the two of them went through seasons of growth. They strengthened their faith, made career discoveries, and reevaluated priorities. After conversations about their values and what they had learned, Jake decided to be intentional with Gianna, knowing that she was the one for him. As his feelings for her grew, he began to pursue her in quiet, meaningful ways. Hosting dinners, carpooling to shared events, offering to be her designated driver (a major sacrifice if you know Jake’s bedtime), and having a family card night with their parents.


As Jake continued to pursue, Giannas heart began to shift. She had deeper feelings for her happy-go-lucky pal, Jake. Caught off guard, she did what any woman would do… cried to her mom. “I’m scared. I can’t feel this way about Jake… he’s Jake!” she exclaimed dramatically. Her wise mother gently reminded her, as she often did, “Slow down. Just see what happens.”


So she did...


What stood out most to Gianna was Jake’s patience and intentionality. One evening, after he made dinner for her family, Jake walked her to the car, looked her in the eyes, and said, “It’s important you know that I’m interested in moving our friendship forward—through intentional dating, with God at the center. If you feel the same, I’d love to take you on an official date. If not, I’ll respect your decision and remain a friend.”


Gianna was stunned—and for once, speechless. That moment set the tone for their relationship to come. Jake remained open and gentle, and Gianna found herself trusting someone else to take the wheel for once.


From the very beginning, Jake and Gianna have sought to grow together by putting God at the center of their relationship. They believe the purpose of their marriage is to help one another pursue Jesus—and that as they draw closer to Him, they draw closer to each other. In darkness, they strive to be a light. Above all, Jake and Gianna find home and safety in each other, knowing they can always be their full, true selves.