We consider ourselves incredibly blessed to have found love at a young age—a love that has grown alongside us over the years. Both born in Georgia, life led us separately to Louisiana, where we would eventually cross paths in the most unexpected and beautiful way.

Though we didn’t know it at the time, we had many mutual friends, and our lives were already beginning to intertwine. On October 23, 2020, our paths officially crossed at Sugar Mill Pond during a “FOCO” (Fake Homecoming)—a celebration organized by our friends during our Junior year of high school in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was that evening, surrounded by laughter and friendship, that we met—and we both wholeheartedly believe it was love at first sight.

What began as a sweet and genuine friendship soon blossomed into something more, and on January 1, 2021, we began dating. Since then, our relationship has been deeply rooted in faith. Genaro began his faith journey soon after we met and has since been confirmed in the Catholic Church. Together, we have leaned on God’s guidance, grown in our spiritual walk, and discovered the joy of a Christ-centered relationship.

From 17-year-olds just beginning to understand love, to now 22-year-olds preparing to enter into marriage, we have grown tremendously—individually and together. We look forward with joyful anticipation to the life ahead of us and all that God has in store.

We humbly ask for your prayers during our engagement and as we begin our journey into marriage. We are endlessly grateful to God, and to the family and friends who have supported and loved us along the way. We cannot wait to celebrate this special day with each of you!

With love and gratitude,

Marissa & Genaro

Photos