Fall Semester 2013 - We were getting together for practice and Andrew happened to be the new drummer; didn't really pay attention but thought, "oh, we have a new kid." After a few weeks of working together for praise sets, we developed a friendship that grew deep and vulnerable real quick. We'd talk over lunch, after vespers, weeknights prior to his drive home. A lot of our talks initially consisted of who Andrew was currently interested in and how frustrated he was in said "relationship". Fast forward to spring 2014 - Andrews University International Food Fair. Andrew and I had volunteered to go to Devon (the India-town of Chicago) to pick up 1,700 samosas. Now I know what you're thinking...that's a LOT of samosas. LOL. But anyway, during our drive to Chicago, I don't remember much else of what we talked about because Andrew asked me probably the most frightening question I've ever had to answer. Out of the blue, he turns to me and says "have you ever or are you currently interested in me?". Yup. I'm sure you feel it too--stomach in knots. I remember quickly responding "yes, what about you?". As soon as I heard Andrew say yes in return, all I remember is the nausea that overcame me for the following 2 weeks and the rest is pretty obvious. 7 years later, we're the best of friends and so excited to be celebrating with you all!

Iris and I met each other early in my freshman year of college. A new acquaintance (who later became a great friend) had invited me to join his worship band the upcoming weekend, and I met several new people during our rehearsal time, one of whom was Iris. Interestingly, we didn’t hit it off right away, and it took a few months until we actually started talking more and became friends. We enjoyed a spirited relationship— one that was filled with cafeteria meals, late-night cramming sessions, and the obligatory existential crises of college—both with each other and our growing community of friends. As our friendship continued to develop, the undercurrents of romance started to stir (as they so often do). I distinctly recall the fragrant spring morning—a Saturday when we were again playing music together—when it became clear in my mind that I wanted to pursue Iris as a romantic partner and not only as a friend. Shortly afterward, we decided that we wanted to start dating and thus began our journey together. Our road has been filled with both immeasurable joy and arduous challenges, but we have grown together in grace and love, much of it made possible by the support and guidance of our families and friends. We’re so excited that you are able to join us for this celebration and look forward to the many years of companionship we will continue to build with each of you.