Wedding Ceremony and Reception

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

Some love stories unfold slowly, but ours began in the most unexpected way with a swipe right! On November 28, 2021, John was about to delete Hinge, and Melissa was preparing to move from Miami to the DMV, stepping into a brand new season of life. Neither of us imagined that God would use that moment to bring us together, but from our very first conversation, something just felt different. It was easy, natural, and filled with a peace that could only come from Him. Over the next six weeks, we talked long-distance, spending countless nights laughing, praying, and sharing our dreams until it felt like we had known each other forever. When we finally met in person on December 24, 2021, surrounded by Christmas lights and the winter air, it didn’t feel like meeting for the first time. It felt like coming home. A week later, on December 31, 2021, we went on our first official date at a mini golf course followed by Korean BBQ. It was simple, fun, and full of laughter, the perfect reflection of who we are together. Just a couple of weeks later, on January 13, 2022, John asked Melissa to be his girlfriend, and that moment marked the beginning of what has now become more than three beautiful years together. December will always remind us of how God brought us together. From the very beginning, our relationship has been anchored in Christ. He has been the steady foundation beneath every milestone and the gentle presence in every quiet moment. John reminds Melissa to slow down and enjoy the present, while Melissa brings passion and warmth into John’s world. Together we have created countless memories, from spontaneous road trips to New York to visiting family in Miami. John even built furniture for Melissa’s first apartment, and Melissa introduced John to her love for Korean food,. Those small and meaningful moments reflect how we choose to love, serve, and grow together every day. Through every season, we have seen God’s faithfulness. He has shown us that love isn’t about perfection but about choosing grace and kindness again and again. In keeping Christ at the center, everything else has fallen beautifully into place, and His peace fills every part of our story. Our relationship also celebrates the beauty of our backgrounds. With Melissa’s Haitian heritage and John’s African American roots, we have learned to embrace our differences and see how God has woven them into something whole, rich, and beautiful. What began as two hearts connecting online has grown into a living testimony of God’s grace, a journey filled with laughter, growth, and unwavering faith. As we step into marriage, we carry with us every prayer, every memory, and every lesson that brought us here. Our story is still being written, and we can’t wait to see how God continues to use our love to shine His light. Now, as we prepare to begin this next chapter as husband and wife, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude and joy. We can’t wait to walk hand in hand into forever, keeping Christ at the center of it all. 💍❤️

Our Story

Photos

Registry

The Westin Alexandria Old Town

Dress Code

Wedding Party

Things to Do

We’ll be staying at The Westin Alexandria Old Town (<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wasxw-the-westin-alexandria-old-town/overview/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wasxw-the-westin-alexandria-old-town/overview/</a>) and would love to have friends and family stay with us! We don’t have an official hotel block, so please feel free to book wherever feels right for you, there are plenty of great options in the area. A few nearby favorites include:SpringHill Suites Alexandria SouthwestHotel AKA AlexandriaHampton Inn Alexandria/Old TownHilton Alexandria Old Town Each of these is about a 15-minute drive to the venue, and close to restaurants, coffee shops, and cute Old Town spots if you want to explore a bit while you’re here. We can’t wait to celebrate the weekend with you and are so grateful you’re making the trip to join us! 💛

Hotel & Lodging

For those traveling to Virginia in December, get ready for crisp winter vibes and cozy layers! ❄️ Daytime temperatures usually range between 40–55°F (5–13°C), while nights can dip into the 30s°F (0–3°C). You’ll get a mix of clear, cool days and occasional light rain or overcast skies, so it’s best to pack for variety. 🌤️ Bring warm layers like sweaters, long-sleeve tops, and a medium-to-heavy coat. 🧥 Add a scarf, gloves, and hat for extra warmth, especially if you plan to be outdoors exploring places like Old Town Alexandria, Richmond, or D.C. monuments🧤. Comfortable boots or closed-toe shoes are ideal for walking and staying warm. 👢 If you’re coming from a warmer climate, the chill will feel brisk but with the right layers, you’ll enjoy the festive lights, cozy cafés, and holiday charm that make Virginia so special this time of year. 🎄

Weather 

Melissa & John

Melissa & John