We're saying "I DO" !

It all began in June of 2023 when Arlenn was scrolling through Hinge and stumbled upon Erik’s profile. Intrigued by his picture, she decided to like it, and soon enough, Erik liked her back—making it an instant match. The two began messaging back and forth, quickly building a connection. While in town visiting family before a family trip to Seattle, Erik asked Arlenn on a date. On June 27, 2023, they met at Yard House, where she learned he still lived in Florida. While Erik was open to seeing where things could go, Arlenn wasn’t ready for a long-distance relationship and suggested they remain friends. Erik agreed. At Christmas, Erik invited Arlenn to his White Elephant party. Afterward, they went to Vibez Lounge with friends, where something between them reignited—though neither realized it at the time. As the night ended, Erik gave Arlenn his jacket in the cold, but his kindness cost him—he fell sick soon after. In late January 2024, Erik told Arlenn he’d be visiting and suggested wine tasting at Toca Madera on either Saturday or Sunday. Arlenn picked Sunday—January 28, without knowing that was his 30th birthday. During wine tasting, Arlenn wondered if they were still just friends, but Erik, respecting her space, didn’t press. He did mention plans to move back to Fresno to be near family. Though she played it cool, excitement bubbled inside her. The day ended with a birthday dinner at The Woodward, where they watched football and enjoyed each other's company. On March 13, 2024, Erik sent Arlenn a bouquet of sunflowers and red roses with a note saying, "Just because it’s Tuesday." The sweet gesture gave her the courage to ask what had been on her mind for months—was there something more between them? The answer was clear: yes. During Easter weekend, Erik visited, and on March 30, 2024, they had their second official date at Five Restaurant and Vibez Lounge. That night, he asked Arlenn to be his girlfriend, beginning their long-distance journey. For 27 days, they relied on FaceTime, often at the cost of Erik’s sleep—but he insisted it was worth it. Thankfully, their time apart was short-lived, as Erik soon moved to Clovis, just an 18-minute drive away. Then, on February 7, 2025—Arlenn’s 27th birthday—surrounded by close family, Erik got down on one knee and proposed, giving her the intimate and heartfelt moment she had always dreamed of. And so, what started as a simple swipe on a dating app turned into a love story filled with fate, patience, and undeniable connection—leading them to the moment where they say forever.