One single swipe. That's what set our lives on the course of our relationship. Somehow in the midst of bad dates, hard times, and the gulf of the internet, we managed to find each other. Our lives overlapped for one single week, a week that led to late-night serenades, dancing in empty parks, and so many apologies for being so sweaty. From New York to Houston, we managed to persevere; then we decided to up our game and try it from Rome. From that one week, we have had the chance to build years worth of memories over so many places and adventures.

The story of our proposal takes place in steps honestly. The day that I (Josh) realized that I wanted to marry her (Bahar) was during our birthday weekend. We had made an impromptu visit to Miami because we were craving sunshine and a beach. We were on a boat, celebrating with friends, and I remember looking across and seeing her. My heart was full from all the adventures from the week and then it started overflowing as the past year flooded in: nights cuddled on the couch, freezing storms, exploring new restaurants, seeing new places, braving hurricanes, everything that is too much to put down. I felt a harmony, happiness in my soul that I never wanted to be without. So, I told her that I wanted us to talk about getting married. We started the process of selecting a ring, but I never told her any plans of a proposal, but I knew she deserved a proper one. We had a trip to Tulum planned for June and it dawned on me that that might be the best opportunity for it. It had everything that spoke to us: sun, beaches, jungle, and warmth, plus we would have some of her family there for it and our best friends. So I tracked down some people (thanks to Reddit) and launched my plan. I wanted to give her everything: a photoshoot, privacy, uniqueness, and food. I managed to rent a villa and have it decorated; two photographers whose style would match her particular wants, and a chef who helped design a dinner that would blow her mind. On the day I stole her away from the group, our friends and her family put together a (surprise) celebration for us, so not only did we get our own personal time, we got to celebrate with those we loved as well.