It all began on New Year's Day in 2018, when Mariah and Deparish crossed paths at a small celebration with mutual friends. The first spark was a playful exchange when Deparish asked if anyone was sitting next to Mariah, and she teasingly replied, "No, but you are." From that moment, a connection blossomed, and over the next few years, their friendship deepened into something more. They kept in touch throughout college, supporting each other through academic struggles and life challenges. In 2019, when Deparish made the life-changing decision to join the military, their bond grew even stronger, built on trust and resilience. One of their most memorable moments came when Deparish flew Mariah to Richmond, Virginia, to witness his military graduation, marking her first-ever flight. The trip allowed them to explore the DMV area together and dream about their future. Through it all, they knew that God had brought them together, and they felt incredibly blessed to have found each other. After completing his military training, Deparish returned home, began his career as a realtor, and became Mariah’s biggest cheerleader as she worked toward her nursing degree. Throughout every challenge in nursing school, he stood by her side, offering encouragement and support until her graduation in 2022. As they grew together, they also discovered who they were as individuals and as a couple. Then, on August 28th, 2024, Deparish planned an unforgettable day, taking Mariah to her first WNBA game in Chicago. The night ended with a surprise private dinner, where he asked her to be his forever. Their journey—full of love, adventure, and unwavering support—culminated in that beautiful moment, and now, they celebrate their story, ready to begin this next chapter of their lives. #ColeLoveStory