Jayda and Jon’s story began before COVID was even a thing in 2019 when they were both working at Panera. Jayda was usually a cashier at the front counter while Jon often manned the drive through. They forged a friendship with corny dad jokes and talking about big and small topics on their breaks.

Despite COVID shutdowns and social distancing, their friendship grew. They began spending more and more time together outside of work and looking forward to their shifts together when Jayda would slip Jon funny notes in his apron to make him smile.

On August 8, 2020, Jon gave Jayda a card asking her if she would be his girlfriend (check yes or no) when they were going to a baby shower for her friend Jae’lin. She happily checked yes and they were official!

They had their ups and downs, but learned through it all that they are better together. They are both homebodies, and complement each other with their shared faith, values, and interests.

As they grew individually and closer together over the years, they both realized they wanted to be together forever. Jon asked both of her parents if they would approve of them getting married, and with their approval, he bought her engagement ring.

On August 8, 2023, their third dating anniversary, Jon proposed at their apartment. The moment was simple and pure - no fancy date or photographers waiting to take photos, but it was perfectly Jayda and Jon - just the two of them at home.

Jon considered making it a big event, but once he had the ring in his pocket he couldn’t wait to propose and give it to her. He did try to set up the iPhone to video the moment, but was so nervous that he forgot to turn off the TV so you can barely hear them, and they accidentally just moved out of the camera view. Ha!


They originally planned for an August 2025 wedding, but as they started planning they kept thinking, “Why wait?” Even as a young newly engaged couple, others joked that they were like an old married couple with their love of quiet nights at home.

Now, they are looking forward to sharing their August 31, 2024 wedding with some of their closest family and friends. Being true to themselves, it’s going to be a small simple ceremony full of love followed by a reception with light refreshments, and dancing. A cash bar will also be available for those who wish to partake.