Akila and Amit first met at The University of Arizona. Amit was finishing up pharmacy school and Akila was halfway through her undergraduate studies. Fast forward 4 years later to a wedding of one of their mutual friends...Amit spotted Akila sitting across the room at a table by herself with not one, but TWO pieces of funfetti cake. He saw his chance and decided to go for it. He walked up to her, sat down, and started eating one of her pieces of cake! Anyone who knows how much Akila hates to share her food would agree that this was an ill-advised move. But, it worked! One year of long distance between Illinois & Arizona, and countless memories later, they're ready to tie the knot :)

Amit and Akila's relationship began at The Phoenician during the wedding of two of their very close friends in 2015. Last November, Akila received a text from Amit's sister-in-law. She explained to Akila that the whole family would be celebrating Amit's brother's birthday at The Phoenician later that week. Little did she know, Amit had orchestrated the text. A few days later, they arrived at The Phoenician and Amit led Akila out to an intimate garden under the pretense that the "private birthday dinner" was in that direction. They turned the corner, and Akila was shocked to see a bridge above flowing water, lined with candles and a garden that was beautifully decorated with red rose petals. Akila was trying her very best to gather herself as Amit pulled out a mini speaker and played their favorite song. He got down on one knee, told Akila how much he loved her, and asked her to marry him :) she said "YES!!!". After a celebration dinner (and some bubbly!), they headed back to Amit's condo where Akila was surprised yet again. Amit had gathered a bunch of their family and friends to celebrate the big news!