We met unofficially when Caleb moved out to the DC area to start his job with the Capitol Police in 2016. He became a member at Grace Lutheran Church, where Melina's father leads the Spanish congregation. She was always sneaking glances when they were at the same church service. Of course at the time there was no chance of anything happening between them since she was still much too young for him.

As time passed, the two would find themselves in the same place again and again at friend group gatherings, especially since Caleb had built quite a friendship with Melina's oldest brother, Tyler. Slowly, Caleb and Melina began talking more. Their courtship was in full motion during Melina's final semester at Martin Luther College.

The month after Melina's graduation was packed full of as many dates as possible. We had to spend as much time together as we could before we would be a long-distance relationship!

By the grace of God, Melina's assignment into the teaching ministry was only a 6 hour drive from the DC area! Caleb visited her in Columbus, OH once or twice a month throughout the school year, and in between visits, they spent countless hours on FaceTime, filling each other in on their days.

On January 27, 2024, Caleb popped the question! After the school year, Melina moved back in with her parents so that she and Caleb could finish the long-distance chapter of their relationship.

We are so excited to be in the final stretch before the wedding, and we can't wait to celebrate with you on June 14!