Our story technically started with a picture—and a very confident mutual friend. One day, Fred was shown a photo of me, Olivia, and told, “She’d be perfect for you.” Fred, never one to miss a good joke, immediately started referring to me as his “wife,” even though we hadn’t actually met yet.

As fate would have it, we finally crossed paths right before the world shut down for COVID. With life slowing down, we ended up spending a lot of unexpected (but very welcome) time together. Those early days were filled with long talks, laughter, and the kind of connection that made it feel like we were exactly where we were supposed to be.

Just before heading off to the University of Florida, we made it official. Over the next four years, we navigated long-ish distance—balancing school, life, and love across cities—but always finding our way back to each other.

Then, the day before my birthday, Fred planned a beachside surprise I never saw coming. With the waves behind us and nearly five years of memories between us, he asked—and I said yes.

Now here we are, planning forever, and still laughing about how it all started with a photo and a joke. We are filled with excitement and gratitude as we approach our wedding day, knowing that this is just the beginning of a beautiful journey.

We look forward to becoming one in the sacrament of marriage, where we will deepen our love for each other and for God, building a life together centered on faith, love, and His guidance.

Photos

photos by Sylvia Santos Photography