Jake says...

From the moment we connected, our love story felt like it was destined. It all started when I nervously sent Lihi a DM, my heart racing with anticipation. I can still remember the message: "Commander in the IDF? Seesh, I'll take that home to grandma!" 😅🤯 Little did I know, that one lighthearted line would lead to something that would change our lives forever.

The chemistry between us was instant. After just one day of chatting, I impulsively bought a plane ticket to meet this amazing woman, trusting my gut that it was the right thing to do. Three weeks of non-stop conversations flew by, and soon, I was boarding a flight to meet the girl who had already captured my heart.

When we finally met, it felt like we’d known each other our whole lives. Our connection was undeniable. After I returned to Colorado, I couldn’t stay away for long—just two weeks later, I was back on a plane to be with her.

As we grew closer, we started discussing the idea of me joining her on a Birthright trip. Even though the sign-up date had long passed, Lihi, being as determined as ever, contacted the CEO of the program. By some miracle (or maybe it was fate), I ended up on the same trip with her. It was truly meant to be.

That trip to Israel turned into a life-changing three-month adventure, where I stayed with Lihi and her incredible family. We traveled, explored, and deepened our bond, realizing that this was only the beginning of something extraordinary.

As the summer ended, I knew without a doubt that Lihi was the one for me. After meeting her, Jake’s grandpa had said, "If you don’t marry her, I will!" His words echoed the certainty I already felt.

After months of planning, we flew to North Carolina to surprise Lihi for her birthday. Her parents flew in from Israel to join us, and surrounded by our families, I got down on one knee and asked her to be mine forever. It was a moment filled with joy, love, and the promise of a beautiful future.

Our story is a testament to how Hashem brought us together. From that first nervous DM to a heartfelt proposal with our loved ones by our side, our love has been a journey of faith and connection. We are thrilled to begin this next chapter together and are so grateful for the love and support as we step into this exciting adventure of marriage.