Shawn and Marissa both moved to Chicago for graduate school, little did they know they would end up meeting their future spouse on December 15th 2022 on a dating app! They both went home for the holidays and when they came back December 30th they had their first date. Shawn was very nervous and wanted it be perfect. He bought her a Christmas gift doing everything he could to impress her. The night was very cold but filled with laughter and tasty food. To Marissa's surprise, the next day Shawn unexpectedly went back home to St. Louis. They didn't see each other again in person until January 23rd, 2023. Upon his return to Chicago, Shawn asked Marissa to be his girlfriend. <3

Shawn and Marissa have spent the last three years falling deeper in love with each other daily. They have spent months apart and relied heavily on face time date nights. They have both completed graduate school, found new jobs and passions, found a home church to serve in, and supported each other always through the good and bad. They love cooking new recipes, playing video games, and watching new tv shows/movies. They also love trying out new restaurants and rating them.

Aug 10th, 2025 is the day that Shawn proposed to Marissa on a vintage pink boat. Marissa was completely surprised with the sheer amount of planning that went into this special day. She said yes, and they are so excited to start the rest of their lives together. The icing on the cake was her being completely surprised by her friends and family coming into town for this special day! Now, Marissa and Shawn are planning to their future together. They are excited to be married on September 26th, 2026. Thank you for sharing this special day with Shawn and Marissa!