JR and Earl's love story began when they were 15 years old. Earl was recommended to be a dance partner for a birthday party, and although JR was not Earl's partner, they briefly shared a moment together. Afterwards, they would often see each other at parties, but their interactions were limited. For Earl, it was lingering feelings he could not shake off. JR, however, only saw him as a friend.

They lost contact with each other, and after a decade, Earl randomly found JR on social media through a Filipino basketball community where she was a member of the group. Earl added JR as a friend and he messaged her - taking a big risk by immediately asking her out on a date. JR happily accepted and after several dates, they began their relationship.

They started off as two completely different people when they first met, talking about new prospects and adventures, while being very down-to-earth and practical in life, focusing more on the great steps that are required to make those dreams a reality. Though JR and Earl were different, they shared one key characteristic: a desire for an authentic life of purpose, love, and growth. From the start, they discussed not where they were but where they wanted to go. They had envisioned a life together - one in which their individual dreams would merge into something greater. There was no talk of one person trading in his wants for her. It was more about how their objectives can complement and enhance each other.

As they deepened in their relationship, they realized that to grow together, they needed to create a shared vision for their future. Now, JR and Earl live together in Columbus with their fur baby, Tucker. This was the first step into their future, and as they prepare to become husband and wife, they have committed to growing together, supporting each other, and building a life filled with love and shared dreams.