Our Story

In fair Fredericksburg, where we lay our scene, two houses both alike in dignity …

Delana and Jonathan started dating in 2020. Delana was drawn to Jonathan’s rugged good looks, boyish charm, and manageable hair (he’s losing it). Jonathan was attracted to Delana’s classic beauty, fashion sense, and artistic ability. Some well-intending matchmaking friends of ours orchestrated our sitting next to each other at a friend’s party at a local restaurant. We chatted a bit and decided to go for coffee afterward. Thus began our relationship.

One week later, COVID happened. The world locked down for the next year and romance in a time of COVID required patience and understanding on both our parts as many of the common dating options were no longer available. Between hiking, Carl’s Ice Cream on the tailgate of Jonathan’s truck, and weekends at the River House, we slowly got to know each other.

That winter, we decided to go to Rochester so Jonathan could meet Delana’s family. As we walked in the door of Delana’s parents’ home, Paul (Delana’s Father) shook Jonathan’s hand and said, “Nice to meet you. You’re coming with me,” and headed out the door. Jonathan thought, “I barely met the guy and he’s already showing me out!”

Fortunately, that was not the case. Paul just wanted a few minutes alone with this new character to get a read on him. They walked to the grocery store for some milk and quickly found common ground discussing cars and trucks.

Fast forward through 4 years of adventures, love, bonding, learning and growing, and Jonathan would purchase an old piece of coal (it’s actually lab grown) and make the long-awaited phone call to Paul to ask for Delana’s hand in marriage.

Well… Paul didn’t answer.

Now this was a problem because Jonathan had carefully laid plans to ask Delana to marry him the next day and he NEEDED Paul to call him back. Quickly! Jonathan agonized. He wrenched his clothes. He chewed his nails. He prayed. The seconds turned into minutes. Finally, after waiting almost 30 long minutes, Paul called back. After a few pleasantries were exchanged, Jonathan informed Paul that he was calling to ask for his Daughter’s hand in marriage. “And just to be clear,” Jonathan added, thinking he was being funny, “I’m speaking of Delana.” Without a moment’s hesitation, Paul responded, “Nope! You have to do it the Biblical way. Start with the oldest!” Fortunately for Paul’s 2 eldest daughters, they are already married and were spared.

The next day, Jonathan got down on one knee on the dock at the River House, and asked Delana to marry him. There was a solid 3 seconds of no response from Delana. Those seconds still tick in Jonathan’s mind. Finally, she said, “Oh, YES!” (she was so surprised she did not realize what was happening) and Jonathan didn’t have to throw himself into the river.

Within 24 hours, Delana planned the wedding venue, caterer, DJ, dress, flowers, etc.

And NOW, we look forward to seeing you all on April 26, 2025! We love you all. - Jonathan and Delana

Thank you so much for your love and prayers over the years!