Our journey began in 2011 at Riverside Missionary Baptist Church. Tatiana had just moved back home with her two daughters, navigating life as a single mom, going to school for medical assisting, and working a minimum wage job. Clifton was serving in the Media Ministry while attending the University of Memphis, living with his parents, and working at FedEx. Tatiana was part of the Children’s Ministry, and one day, she approached Clifton—never realizing that small moment would spark something extraordinary.
What started as a simple friendship slowly blossomed into something deeper. We took our time getting to know each other, grounding our connection in mutual respect, shared values, and faith. In 2017, Clifton asked Tatiana to be his girlfriend, marking the beginning of a beautiful chapter filled with love, learning, and laughter.
Our first trip together was to Miami later that year, a memory that still makes us smile. In 2018, Clifton graduated from the University of Memphis, and in 2019 we were blessed—though we didn’t know it yet—with the beginning of our son Aiden’s life. He was born in 2020, bringing even more joy into our growing family.
Clifton stepped into the role of father with grace and love, forming a bond with Tatiana’s daughters from the time they were just 8 years old. Through every season—challenges, growth, and unforgettable moments—we kept God at the center of our relationship. We talked about marriage, and Clifton asked Tatiana for patience. During that time, we built a strong foundation rooted in faith, commitment, and trust.
On May 5, 2024, Clifton proposed during a surprise photo shoot—turning an ordinary day into one of the most cherished moments of our lives.
Now, as we prepare to say "I do," we look back with gratitude on every twist and turn that brought us here. Our love is a testimony of God's faithfulness, timing, and grace—and we can’t wait to continue writing this story together, side by side.