At the end of July 2022, we matched on Hinge and facetimed for 3 hours before Shawn claimed that his phone "died" (he really went to bed). We spoke for a few days, planning on meeting up that Friday for our first date. On Friday Shawn showed up at Mutiara's apartment and met Luca, her dog, who was a fan of Shawn immediately despite his fear of men (mostly because of the pets and butt scratches Shawn gave him). Luca's instant connection with Shawn should've been the first sign that Shawn's a keeper! The first date took place at a brewery and themed bar. That night we made plans to see each other the next day. The following week, Mutiara went to France and did not have high hopes that Shawn would stay in contact after two dates, but he remained consistent and we facetimed, messaged, and spoke on the phone every day. When Mutiara returned, Shawn wanted to meet Mutiara's family and plan a hometown trip to meet his parents and childhood friends.

In May 2023, Mutiara and Luca moved in with Shawn and Declan. The transition of living together was smooth and our crazy boys are best friends. They love their dad and look forward to their daily walks with him!

On December 22, 2023 we got engaged. Shawn planned a beautiful proposal and although hard to surprise, Mutiara was shocked when a "walk to Sprouts" with her mom was really a walk into their engagement. Shawn had our immediate families present as he knows how much family means to both of us.

Just a day shy of our one year engagement, we are getting married and we cannot wait to celebrate with you!