We're getting married !!

They started off as familiar faces to each other. They had been introduced to each other by his cousin and from then on, they would bump into each other from time to time whenever they were out. Even though their encounters were sporadic, their chemistry was just so natural. One day, a close mutual friend reached out to Lori and invited her out with him and Derek. and so, she did. Prepared for a night of fun with friends, Lori had no idea that that night would ultimately change the dynamic of her and Derek's relationship forever. After a night of dancing and laughing, it was clear that there was a spark between the two and they soon became inseparable. between the all-night phone calls, falling asleep on the phone and texting all day long, it was so easy for the two of them to enjoy each other's company and so they did. for months, until Lori moved back to New York and they went some time without seeing each other. Derek too ended up moving back to New York, and they tried to stay in contact, but things happen, like they tend to do and the two didnt see each other as much as they use to. After a few years of living in New York, Derek eventually moved back to North Carolina to become the version of himself he knew he wanted to be and Lori stood in New York working on finishing her degree. Always showing love to each other no matter the time apart, Lori reached out to Derek to accompany her for her 27th (October 2020) birthday vacation. They spent 6 days in paradise, surrounded by the beautiful water and the coquis; experiencing for the first time what it would be like if they were actually together and they both secretly knew that it was something they wanted. Something that they both could see lasting a long time or possibly even forever. Eventually the trip was over, and they both had to return home. back to work and life but everything had shifted. suddenly being apart didn't feel right. And on January 1st, 2021, the two decided to build a life together that they love. filled with laughter and love. Twist and turns. Even some moments of confusions but every moment has shaped their lives, shaped who they have become as partners & as parents and led these two to the alter. This love story gave them everything. A Home. Two beautiful sons' and a person that neither one would want to live without above all, we thank God for aligning their footings and bringing the two together. without God none of this is possible. Mark 10:9 " Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."