Sam and Zemirah had no idea their journey together would span 7.503 years before they’d decide to spend the rest of their lives with each other. Sam first met Zemirah in Cleveland, OH, at their first freshman Cru meeting—though Zemirah has no memory of it!

Sam found her fun, banterous nature both entertaining and disarming, but it was her depth of kindness and ability to truly connect with others that made him eventually fall for her. His feelings quickly grew into a genuine friendship, marked by shared laughter and late-night talks. Somewhere along the way, Sam realized he felt something more. He admired the way Zemirah cared so deeply for people, how she made everyone feel seen and heard. And so, during an impromptu guitar lesson, he confessed his feelings for her—but was promptly brother-zoned.

Neither of them could have imagined the intention and beauty in how God was paving the way for both of them. Over the course of the year, they had many conversations—DTRs, sorting through feelings, and trying to understand where they stood. Sam’s patience never wavered, and slowly, Zemirah began to see him in a new light. She caught a glimpse of his servant heart—his commitment to his community and his steadfastness in loving others without expectation. Nearing the end of summer before their sophomore year, Sam flew to California to ask Zemirah’s parents for permission to date her. Thankfully, they said yes!

Over the next eight years, it became clear that God had brought them into each other’s lives for a purpose. Through seasons of grief, loss, and hardship, Zemirah stood beside Sam—not just as a source of comfort, but as a steady and unwavering presence, offering strength when his own felt depleted. And in times when Zemirah felt isolated and disconnected from her community, Sam remained faithful and patient, always ready to remind her that she was never truly alone.

Through it all, their steady commitment to one another—rooted in faith, trust, and a deep understanding—laid the foundation for something lasting. Over time, they came to see that their love wasn’t just about the two of them, but a reflection of something greater. In the way they forgave, served, and sacrificed for each other, they caught a glimpse of the deeper love Christ has for His people—a love that is steadfast, selfless, and redemptive. It was this understanding that ultimately led them to pursue marriage, not just as a commitment to each other, but as a way to mirror the gospel in their life together.

Z&S

Wedding Day