We're getting married!

CJ and Savanna met in November 2019, while studying at UC Santa Barbara. They were both in Greek life and attended an organizational event at Zodo's (the famous bowling alley in Goleta). CJ was with two good friends, and the three of them decided to separate from their fraternity to find another lane with openings. Little did CJ know, that 'randomly' chosen bowling lane would lead him to the love of his life. Savanna, along with her friend, welcomed them to the lane, and the five of them spent the event laughing and getting to know each other. CJ was especially struck by Savanna's bowling skills (she was thankful that her bowling class that quarter prepared her for this moment), and later that night, Savanna was drawn to CJ's dancing (he was unaware that she was watching). That night was just the beginning for CJ and Savanna...

CJ and Savanna dated for almost five and a half years, starting in December 2019. They survived a pandemic, spending more time together than most couples do at the four-month mark. They graduated from UC Santa Barbara side-by-side in 2021 (in CJ's college living room). They supported each other, while CJ focused on starting his career and Savanna worked towards her master's degree at USC. Their relationship was truly tested when they endured long-distance for one year, when Savanna left for New York City to receive her second master's degree from Columbia. CJ provided unconditional support, while Savanna achieved a dream of hers. Even with this trial, their relationship continued to strengthen, and after graduation, they were finally able to move into their first apartment together in 2023. Through new jobs, heartbreaking losses, and countless happy moments, CJ and Savanna continuously grew together and made each other stronger.

CJ proposed to Savanna on March 22, 2025. He, along with the help of some very special friends, convinced Savanna that they were going back to Santa Barbara (their favorite place in the world) for a friend's family barbecue. He further convinced her that before the barbecue, a group of them would check out a restaurant at a fancy hotel for brunch. Through multiple white lies and redirections from CJ and their dear friends, Savanna was convinced to walk on the beach (while they waited for a table that didn't exist at the brunch restaurant that wasn't open). Completely unaware of the big plan surrounding her, Savanna blissfully meandered on the shoreline, looking for shells, smiling at dogs, and taking multiple photos and videos. While CJ was nervously trying to guide her towards a particular spot on the beach where their photographer friend was waiting, Savanna remembered thinking, "Why is he in such a rush, when we have 45 minutes to kill?" Finally, in the perfect spot, CJ got down on one knee to ask the easiest question for Savanna to answer. She was completely surprised (asking over and over if this moment was real), and they were both filled with happiness, surrounded by a few loving friends. The perfect day continued with photos and a picnic with their families at another nearby beach. CJ and Savanna were both so thankful to the family and friends who made this day possible and so memorable. And, while that day marked the end of their time dating, it was the beginning of their next, exciting chapter...