We're getting married! Nos vamos a casar!

Manny was new to Albuquerque where Amanda was born and raised. He was from Las Cruces but moved to find a career. Their paths crossed while they were each looking to deepen their faith through UNM campus ministry. As leaders in the Lobo Awakening retreat, Manny and Amanda grew in friendship. It wasn’t until 2 years after meeting when their love finally blossomed. Manny moved back to Las Cruces when the pandemic hit, and Amanda was devastated thinking she lost her chance at love. But love was more persistent... and so were they. 2 years of long-distance dating and thousands of miles on their cars turned into the deepest kind of love a person could hope to find. Amanda put all of her hope and faith into Manny and moved to Las Cruces in 2022, dreaming of becoming Mrs. Amanda Chairez. Her hopes are now turning into a reality and they are so excited to share the most important day of their lives with you all!

Amanda was graduating with her Masters in Social Work and threw a big party to celebrate! While Amanda and Manny were celebrating with family and friends alike, Forever and Ever Amen by Randy Travis begins to play. Manny grabs Amanda to the dance floor and starts to twirl her around. At one point he tells her, "I called your dad earlier." Confused, Amanda said, "about what?" "Marrying you." Manny responded. "Oh yeah?" blushed Amanda. "And what'd he say?" "He said yes... And then I called your mom and brother with the same question and they said yes" (Amanda's heart begins to race) "so then I bought a ring." Amanda stopped in her tracks and looked the love of her life in the eyes as he got down on one knee. The room exploded with cheers and Amanda sprang into the air!!! Manny was shaking with excitement! Surrounded by so many of their loved ones Manny and Amanda created a promise to God and to each other. The celebrations became tenfold that night... and everyone danced the night away (until we had to clean up and leave). Amanda and Manny are beyond excited to share the solidifying of this promise with you all on August 31st.