A Love Story Written by Faith

It all started with a chance meeting at the gym on March 7, 2022. Neither Charlie nor Sakinah knew that the other was on a journey of self-improvement, looking for love, and asking God to send them a lifelong partner. A year later, on March 6, 2023, they went on their first date—without even realizing the significance of the timing. The very next day, March 7th, they went to lunch, jokingly calling it their “anniversary.” What began as a playful lunch turned into a celebration for Mrs. LeStage with a birthday meal with the both of them and Mr. and Mrs. LeStage followed by Zach’s birthday dinner with family. Needless to say, love was blossoming fast!

Over the course of the year, they experienced laughter, growth, loss, milestones, celebrations, prayers, and tears—building something real and lasting. When Charlie felt ready to start dating, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell, encouraged him to ask God for exactly what he wanted for himself and his son, making his desires plain. On the other side, Sakinah’s family reminded her to be specific about the qualities she sought in a partner. And God answered both prayers with precision, bringing them together at the perfect moment, prepared and ready to embrace each other.

The moment everything became official? On May 22, 2024, Charlie surprised Sakinah with a romantic trip to Cuba, the homeland of her mother’s family. In a breathtaking private spot overlooking the ocean, Charlie got down on one knee and proposed, capturing the magic with photographer Bryan Gonzales.

Their love story is built on faith, prayer, and patience. Charlie and Sakinah have found not only love but deep friendship through their obedience to God’s guidance. Both families are overjoyed to unite in Christ, knowing this is only the beginning of a beautiful journey as two hearts come together as one.