Years in the Making

Before Joshua left on his mission to Busan, South Korea, in 2019, his aunt, Ashley Curtis, had been trying to get him to go out with a particular young woman in their South Jordan ward. Although Joshua was a slow mover, Ashley’s efforts didn’t stop, even after he left. Two years later, when Joshua returned in 2021, Whitney was still on her mission in Chicago! But when Whitney finally came home in the summer of 2023, fate seemed to be guiding them. Joshua asked her out on a date, and they went for pizza (deep-dish, of course!) and a few rounds of mini-golf on June 24. That night was full of laughter and great conversation, and even though they both sensed something special between them, neither knew just how special it would become.

Playing Hard to Get

Whitney admits, she was a little hesitant about getting back into dating after her mission. She had just returned home, and there were several people eager to take her out, including some friends she had met during her mission. At the time of her first date with Joshua, she was casually seeing someone else and wasn’t sure if she was ready to jump into something serious.

But when Whitney realized that Joshua was serious about wanting to get to know her better, she started to see things differently. One day, after leaving the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, she had the distinct impression that she should reach out to Joshua. Although it didn’t come directly from her, Ashley helped spread the word once again. On December 23, 2023, they went on what they now call their "second-first date." They watched Savior of the World in Salt Lake City and then walked through the Christmas lights at Temple Square. There was something about that night that made Whitney feel like she needed to give Joshua a chance. After a few more dates, Whitney and Joshua realized they were ready to take the leap, and on February 4, 2024, they decided to date exclusively.

Popping the Question

As the months went by, both Joshua and Whitney began to seriously consider the next step in their relationship. Marriage had been lightly discussed between their families, but neither was sure how the timing of their school schedules and life goals would align. Yet, their connection was undeniable, and they both felt deep down that they were meant to be together.

Behind the scenes, Joshua had been quietly reflecting on their future. He knew without a doubt that his love for Whitney was real and that she was the person he wanted to marry. The only thing standing in the way was the timing. So, when Whitney brought up the possibility of studying abroad in Eastern Europe during the summer of 2025—just nine months away—Joshua realized that if they were going to make this work, he needed to act fast.

Despite the uncertainty, both of them knew it was time to make some decisions. Joshua began planning and saving for the perfect engagement ring, one that would symbolize not just their love but the elements of their relationship. It was more than just a ring; it was a reflection of their journey together.

Though questions from family and friends about when the ring would be ready continued, Joshua remained tight-lipped, focused on making sure everything was just right. Finally, on December 23, 2023—exactly one year after their "second-first date"—he got down on one knee and asked Whitney the question they both knew was coming. Whitney, with tears in her eyes and a large grin on her face, said yes!

The Rest is History

Since the engagement, Whitney and Joshua have grown closer than ever before. Through planning the wedding, dealing with work and school, and navigating this new chapter in their lives, they are ready to begin time and all eternity with each other.

W&J

Reception