Stephanie and I met on November 7, 2015. Though perhaps not quite “love” at first sight, there was an undeniable connection between us– one that seemed to predate our actual meeting. That sense of familiarity was so strong that we spent those first 20 or 30 minutes combing through our lives trying to figure out where we knew each other from. It was difficult to believe that this was our first time laying eyes on each other, as I felt like I had known her for years.

For some time, we fought against what seemed to be fate– each of us afraid to jeopardize such a deep and meaningful friendship should a romantic relationship go awry. But eventually we came to realize that a marriage should be the one friendship you are most afraid to lose. And there was no one we were more unwilling to lose than each other.

To us, love is supporting and believing in another person, even when they doubt themselves. It is helping the other to grow and learn– about themselves, the world, and their place in it.

Stephanie and I have helped each other grow more than anyone else; I would not be where I am if not for her support and encouragement. While I tend to teach Stephanie the practical skills– such as how to drive or how to file taxes– she has taught me the soft skills I lacked. Stephanie has helped me become more confident and outgoing, and given me reason and inspiration to want better and to be better.

All my life, I have been searching for a place where I fit, and now I know that I have found it– by Stephanie’s side.

On April 27, 2025, we are both very excited to take the next step in our journey together, and we hope to see you there to celebrate with us.