… in the ever-confusing world of online dating, there lived a magical little app named “Hinge.” Sean, ever the optimist, decided to brave the wilds of digital matchmaking. Erika had this brand new desire to date again. She thought “what are the odds that this may actually work?” Somewhere in the ether, Sean sent Erika a “rose” (yes, a big deal), and then… silence. Erika was out living her life, and Sean, convinced she’d ghosted him, moved on with his. Two (three?) weeks later—surprise! A message from Erika popped up.
Fast forward to their first meeting: a coffee shop, a long walk, and deep conversation about C.S. Lewis (always a good sign). Sean thought, “Wow, this girl reads.” Erika thought, “Hmmm who is this guy? A complete stranger.”

Falling in love wasn’t instant—it was honest, complicated, and full of conversations about theology (some spicy ones too). Their dates were fun, competitive, and carried all the fiery energy you’d expect from two eldest siblings. But over time, something deeper took root. They started to soften toward each other. Slowly, they began to see how God was using this relationship to shape and refine them. Sean saw how Erika’s compassion, strength, and pursuit of truth softened his heart, stretched his perspective, and drew him closer to Christ. Erika saw Sean’s patience, humility, intentionality, heart for Truth, bold vulnerability, fear of the Lord, and actionable love. Through it all, love blossomed—not just in spark but in sanctification.

Eventually, Sean planned a grand proposal adventure to Sequoia National Park. Totally stealthy (okay, Erika might have known), they road-tripped up 8,000 feet in Sean’s heroic Toyota Corolla. After a few back-and-forths down the mountain and a day wandering snowy forests and colossal sequoias, Sean knelt in the quiet wonder of creation and asked Erika to spend forever with him. She pretended to be surprised (she wasn’t) — and Sean continues to pretend he got away with it.

We’re thrilled to celebrate our wedding in Monterey with those we love, and afterward, we’ll be starting a new chapter in Maryland as Sean continues his military career and Erika pursues the Lord’s call (school, teaching, ministry, counseling, who knows…well…the Lord does). We want our marriage to be anchored in Christ—we want to serve each other and reflect His love, humility, and joy. We hope to follow Jesus. He said after He served and washed His disciples feet, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15). We pray to continue that example with one another and to you all.