Initially David and Choyce knew each other via a friends introduction and scant text messaging back and forth. The busy schedules of a medical student and traveling neonatal intensive care nurse just could not sync up. As their communication became more and more brief, they subsequently fell out of contact. Once David moved to Miami to complete his medical education and Choyce moved to San Diego for a new travel nursing position, it seemed their encounter was over. Fast forward to May 19th, 2018 when David and his close friend from Medical school Ericka, attended their graduation in Miami, Florida. Choyce arrived in support of her best friend, after deciding to return to work in her home town of Atlanta. That evening after the graduation ceremony, they both attended a yacht party in the port of Miami. As David was making his way to the main level, he had his first face-to-face encounter with Choyce. She stood at the stern of the yacht looking out over the water and the reflection of the gleaming Miami night. Finally, having the opportunity to speak to one another, it quickly came out that David accepted a research job in Atlanta, prior to starting his residency training. The meeting that night in Miami would act as the spark which ignited their relationship. From that moment forward they have built a love story seeded on a foundation of faith, family, and trust.

Choyce's Perspective As David and I discussed getting married frequently, I knew he planned to propose soon. However, with his sarcastic nature, upon being asked he would always say "By the time he finishes residency". Which for those who don't know can range anywhere from 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty field of study. So of course I frequently grew anxious. I had thought David might propose to me on our trip to Spain in April; however, when we had to cancel due to COVID 19, I was completely unsure. David of course left me no hints. Fast forward to Mother's Day (May 10,2020), David had nonchalantly brought up the idea of doing a picnic in Centennial Park. I didn't think anything of it as he was really good at down playing things. Once we celebrated Mother's Day with my family, David and I left to go for our picnic. For those that know the background, I wasn't feeling too good and wanted to just go home instead, GLAD I DIDN'T! After lounging at the park for a bit our friends Bianca and Kaylane ironically show up claiming to be out to enjoy the sun and escape "quarantining". As we chat for a bit, I feel a tap on my shoulder and it is my father, followed by my mother and brother. Shocked... I instantly say, " I know what's going on here". As David stands in front of me, I am encircled by a group of love as he delivers the most eloquently worded speech (which is what I told him I wanted). As he proceeds to ask me "Will you make me the happiest man in the world and marry me" I burst into tears. After a short celebration, David points across the park to a photographer who was there the entire time. We proceed to have our engagement photo session as you all have seen on our social media, save the dates, and this website. Thank you for being on this journey with us.

David’s perspective I had a conversation with Choyce’s father in regards to marrying his daughter nearly a year ago. Choyce and I constantly discussed taking an international trip, with some of our close friends, to Spain. As we planned our trip I simultaneously planned the proposal. In November 2019 the novel coronavirus began to spread rapidly throughout Asia and Europe. Within Months it was too dangerous to travel and our trip was cancelled four weeks before our departure. The proposal had fallen apart, so I began searching for an alternative. A picnic at centennial park in Atlanta was the perfect alternative. Choyce was more than happy to go on a picnic. Her family coached me on remaining calm especially when she would get anxious. Choyce made it known that she did not want to look a mess when she was proposed to. In my eyes she is always beautiful but I still heard her loud and clear. On Mother’s Day Choyce had everything on point, hair done, nails done, perfect outfit to match. My queen was ready for the ball. After brunch the plan was to travel to the park for our picnic. Everything was falling into place, but not all plans go without a hitch. As a doctor I have dealt with many forms of illness so I’m no stranger to treatment plans. Choyce has a shellfish allergy and on this Mother’s Day shrimp and grits were on the menu. Thankfully the drugstore is open on holidays, because it came in handy that day. After crisis was averted we left for our picnic. I messaged all those who would be involved to get into place. We parked the car and proceeded to find our picnic ground, which unknowingly to Choyce I had scouted days earlier. I located the photographer in the distance and let everyone know we were a go. I knew that the moment Choyce saw her parents she would realize what was going on. As everyone gathered around I proceeded to divulge my heart to the woman that I love. Afterwards I placed the ring on Choyce’s finger and became the happiest man on the planet.