We met online—and yes, Michael still cringes when we tell people that. Even though he sent the first message, Lyrica always says, “Everyone shops online… and Michael was the best thing I ever added to my cart.” Our first date (Michael’s pick) was at the Arizona Science Center, and it was anything but ordinary. From exploring the Mummy exhibits to deep conversation, we spent the entire day together and didn’t want it to end. From the start, we dated with intention, believing that even though the timing didn’t feel perfect, God knew exactly what He was doing.
The pandemic hit during our first year together—during a time we were still laying the foundation of our relationship. We weren’t living together, which made it even more challenging to stay connected. But despite the distance and all the uncertainty around us, we stayed rooted in faith and committed to each other. What God brings together, no season of life—not even a global one—can tear apart.
After a few full and fast-moving years, we found ourselves caught up in the rhythm of everyday life—careers, responsibilities, family, and everything in between. Life was good, but we realized we had been pouring so much into everything around us that we hadn’t taken the time to really pour back into us. So we hit pause and made a choice to be intentional about reconnecting and strengthening our bond. One unforgettable trip to Vegas helped reset everything. While we were there, we stumbled across the same Mummy exhibit from our very first date which had just opened at one of the nearby hotels. We didn’t plan it, but somehow, it found its way back to us. Naturally, we made it part of the trip. That moment reminded us how far we’ve come, how much we’ve grown, and how meant for each other we truly are. We returned more connected, more aligned, and more in love—with open eyes, open hearts, and a renewed excitement for everything ahead.
Michael planned a much-needed vacation to Maui, and it quickly became one of the most unforgettable trips we’ve shared. We explored the Road to Hana, visited a local farm where we tried fresh sugarcane and homegrown fruits of the island, saw the stunning black rocks, and both agreed that poi (taro paste) was… interesting. One night, we dressed up for a beautiful dinner at a romantic Italian restaurant and, without even planning it, we both ordered lasagna—one of those simple little moments that just felt right. A few days later, just before heading to the most magical luau under the stars, Michael asked the question that changed everything. It was the perfect start to forever.
We can’t wait to say “I do” in front of our favorite people—YOU! This will be the only time all our closest friends and family will be in the same place at the same time, and we don’t take that for granted. It means the world to us to celebrate this new chapter surrounded by the people who have loved, supported, and cheered us on. From heartfelt vows to dancing the night away, we’re excited to create memories that will last a lifetime—with all of you there to witness the start of forever as Mr. & Mrs. Bishop!