Lillianne and Manuel met at a homecoming cookout at Bridgewater State University. Manny noticed Lilli right away—he thought she was beautiful and knew he wanted to get to know her. But when he tried to introduce himself, Lilli rejected him instantly. She wasn’t trying to be rude—she was laser-focused on graduating and planning to move to Korea after university.

Still, Manny was persistent. When he asked their mutual friend Andrea about Lilli, Andrea simply told him, “She’s not looking for a relationship.” That could’ve been the end of the story—but instead, it was just the beginning.

Thanks to Andrea, they started spending more time together, and despite her original plans, it didn’t take long for Lilli to start falling. Though Manny was the first to show interest, Lilli was the one who fell in love first.

Their first date was a cozy movie night in the common room of Crimson dorm. Before it even started, Lilli told him, “If I leave without a kiss, you did it wrong.” Manny made sure he didn’t. That night, they shared their first kiss—and something real began.

The turning point? Lilli’s cat, Willow Mae, met Manny for the first time… and immediately chose him over her. That was all the confirmation she needed.

Their relationship moved slowly and intentionally. Over the years, they’ve faced life’s real challenges together: choosing to stay rather than move abroad, navigating job changes, growing as people, and most importantly, discovering their faith and spiritual home at New Life South Coast.

No matter the season, they’ve kept God and each other at the center. Every decision has been made together. Every obstacle has been faced as a team.

After three years of growing together, Manny brought Lilli to Puerto Rico for Christmas to meet his family. On December 27th, 2024—just two days after Christmas—he got down on one knee. Lilli said yes and kissed him before he could even stand up. The ring was more beautiful than anything she’d dreamed of—custom-made, faith-filled, and crafted with love and intention.

Now, Lilli and Manny are excited to step into their next chapter with their two furbabies, Willow Mae and Jackie Asher, by their side. They’re building a life rooted in love, faith, and laughter—one where God is the foundation, home is full of joy, and every day is another chance to grow together.