Secluded Garden Estate

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Our story began in September of 2022, the day Karen started working at Crossroads. She remembered it clearly, at her new job, her new supervisor was giving her a tour of the school when she asked, “Have you met Mr. Nick yet?” Karen had said "no", and as they continued walking. They eventually reached Room 38, where Nick was assigned to assist in Mrs. Roque’s 5th grade class. Coming from Karen, "I remember our first meeting—he was kind, polite, and incredibly sweet." But at the time, I was too nervous about starting my new job to think about him in any sort of romantic way. We both worked closely with the 5th grade class, which led us to spend more time together and get to know each other better. Before I even met Nick, I had been praying for the man I would someday marry. I asked God for someone gentle, someone whose heart belonged to Him—a man of deep faith, character, and kindness. I had a list, and I believed God had it too, stored somewhere in my “prayer file.” Nick stood out from the beginning—not just in the way he asked thoughtful, deep questions, but in how he genuinely listened. Still, I didn’t feel any romantic pull at first. Even as co-workers began whispering that Nick might have a crush on me, I dismissed it. There was an age gap between us, and I had always said, "I’ll never marry someone younger than me." Over time, I couldn’t help but notice the way Nick always found a reason to talk to me, or how his eyes seemed to soften when he looked at me—different than the way he looked at anyone else. Still, I made a conscious effort to ignore it. I didn’t want to lead him on if he did have feelings for me. Then, in December of 2022, I had to stay late at work due to a student with behavioral challenges. As I finally clocked out, I noticed Nick was still on campus. It seemed like he had waited for me. We walked out to the parking lot together, chatting along the way. Then came the unexpected question: “What are you doing this weekend? Want to grab coffee?” I froze. Panicking, I told him I had other commitments and turned him down. Months passed. Coming from Nick, I remember that once she had rejected, me I had a feeling it could be due to my age, but I was determined to continue forward with Karen. Praying and waiting, I knew this woman was gem God had revealed to me, that I couldn't give up on her. I had such confidence, and I honestly think it was from God, as again, I did not want to pass on this woman. Her personality and everything I wanted in a future wife, was right before my eyes... As time went on, I gave Karen her space, and just time to reflect on things happening, in her own personal life. Waiting again for the opportunity to come again. Karen's thoughts... Nick remained warm, steady, and—despite my hesitations—clearly still interested. I began to feel drawn to him too, but I was afraid. I needed to be sure this was from God and not just emotion. Eventually, Nick asked if he could talk to me in person. My anxiety kicked in—I wanted to know immediately what it was about—so I asked him to call instead. Over the phone, he bravely shared his feelings. He said he wanted to get to know me better—not as a co-worker, but as a friend. Once again, I said no. The age difference still scared me, and the fear of heartbreak from past experiences kept holding me back.Then came May of 2023. Nick asked again. I told him honestly how scared I was—how I didn’t want to commit to something that might end in heartbreak. That’s when he said something that changed everything:“We’re not committing to dating, Karen. We’re just choosing to be friends—real friends—and seeing where it goes.”Those words brought so much peace. They took the pressure off, and gave me space to trust. For the first time, I said yes.Over the following weeks, I found myself falling for Nick in ways I didn’t expect. I remember thinking, I wish I had said yes sooner. It was as if God gently revealed to me, “This is good. This is safe. This is from Me.” Now, nearly two years later, our relationship has grown into something more beautiful than I ever imagined. I am filled with joy and gratitude as I prepare to marry the man I once thought I’d never consider. Nick is everything I prayed for, and more—because God always gives His best in His perfect timing.He has never stopped loving me for who I truly am, and I am so thankful I finally said yes.

Nicholas & Karen

Nicholas & Karen

N&K

Wedding Day

3:00 PM–4:00 PM

Ceremony

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Reception