"It all started with a dance." Although we both have lived in the South Bend Mishawaka Area all of our lives, we first noticed each other when the Santiago Family moved to the South Bend Spanish Kingdom Hall in August of 2023. Both being too shy to go any further in conversation, our conversations were limited to polite "hellos" & "goodbyes". It wasn't until a bonfire on a cold, rainy October evening where we danced for the first time that we realized through conversation that we had a lot in common! Little did we know that night would change our lives forever. Since that day and thanks to Jehovah God, our love and deep appreciation for each other has grown, and continues to grow with the passing of each day. We both cannot wait to begin our lives together as husband and wife & to celebrate our wedding day with you!

One year from when we started dating, I was invited to a “Girls only wine tasting Tour by Juan's sister, Breanna, accompanied by my close friend Abby. On the way to the trail, I was told we would be making a stop at the Shiojiri Gardens in Mishawaka for a quick photo shoot to mark the occasion. At first glimpse as I entered the garden, I saw a beautiful backdrop with flowers, candles, balloons and floral petals on the ground in the shape of a heart - as well as a handsome man holding a gorgeous bouquet of roses in front of a large "Marry Me" sign in lights. As I walked closer, I realized that handsome man was Juan, the love of my life and I was in complete shock! Our families and friends emerged from the garden surrounding the gazebo where we stood to capture our special moment...one of the best moments of my life and one that I will always cherish! ❤️