"... I have found the one whom my soul loves."

On the digital canvas of Coffee Meets Bagel, our love story unfolded. I, bold and adventurous, sent the first message that set the stage for a serendipitous connection. As fate would have it, MaShon was graduating from The Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and planned to move to Atlanta. Our first date at The Lawrence turned into a magical four-hour rendezvous. We met for drinks and then went on a romantic stroll in the rain in midtown Atlanta. MaShon, a true gentleman, held up his umbrella the entire night. By the time I made it home, I knew in my heart that MaShon was the one. We went on several dates during the summer of 2019 and reconnected right before the Covid-19 pandemic. We nurtured our relationship for 18 months and as 2021 unfolded its challenges, we decided to part ways, seeking individual growth. In December 2022, MaShon, moved by the spirit of Christmas, sent me a surprise gift (a Philadelphia LOVE ornament and graphic t-shirt) to rekindle our flame. After learning about his impending relocation to California, I proposed one last celebration. MaShon, knowing my love for Christmas, chose a holiday pop-up bar for a magical reunion. The year that followed was a journey of reconnection and rediscovery. Our love blossomed—stronger and more resilient.

On the afternoon of December 22nd, as we approached Marshall’s Beach in San Francisco, a magical sight unfolded. The Golden Gate Bridge was partially shrouded in fog on one side, while clear skies embraced the other. After walking down to the beach and walking along the shoreline, a friendly tourist approached us and asked if one of us could take his picture. As Ebony focused on capturing his moment, I seized the opportunity. Stepping back, I dropped to one knee. The tourist, as it turned out, was a professional photographer, and he documented the joyous scene as Ebony said “yes” when I asked for her hand in marriage. With the whispers of the ocean in the background, we sipped Prosecco and toasted to our future. I sought this location because I wanted the Golden Gate Bridge in our photos. Little did Ebony know, that backdrop would forever symbolize the start of our shared journey. After the proposal, we wandered to the Conservatory of Flowers since Ebony loves flowers. Dinner followed, an intimate gathering with my mom, dad, and brother. After dinner, family photos ensued, capturing the older Wilsons with the soon-to-be younger Wilsons. Ebony remembers my dad's heartfelt words, “Welcome to the group!” Six weeks later, I orchestrated a surprise engagement party in Atlanta, enveloping Ebony in the love of her family and best friends. Laughter echoed, glasses clinked, and in that moment, surrounded by those who mattered most to her, our two worlds were united.