Elijah and Kayla first met in 2014 through church fellowship events. Their churches would often come together, and that’s when their paths crossed. At the time, Elijah was two years younger than Kayla, so naturally, she paid him no mind! Elijah, however, was persistent. He’d flirt and try to spark conversation, but Kayla didn’t take him seriously and would simply laugh him off, reminding him he was “too young.” Despite his efforts, Kayla paid him no mind, and they remained friends — nothing more, nothing less. What Kayla didn’t realize at the time was that Elijah already knew something she hadn’t even considered — from the very first day he laid eyes on her, he told her he knew she would one day be his wife. It became a running joke between them in those early years. Kayla would often laugh it off, chalking it up to teenage boldness. But now, as they’ve grown in love and into the depth of their relationship, Kayla often reflects on that bold declaration — and marvels at how God has brought it full circle. What once seemed silly is now seen as divine confirmation — a sign that their love story was ordained by God from the very beginning. Fast forward to a year later, Elijah tried once again. Kayla, still unconvinced, playfully told him, “Maybe in two years.” True to form, Elijah came back a year earlier ahead of the two-year schedule (2017) — and this time, something shifted. They began to talk more intentionally and started building a real connection. On September 6, 2017, Elijah officially asked Kayla to be his girlfriend (because she made it clear there would be no “us” until he asked properly!), and from that moment forward, their journey truly began. Although they were young, growing, and navigating life, their relationship has been one of growth, faith, and unwavering love. While pursuing their individual goals and dreams, they faced obstacles that could have pulled them apart — but instead, they stayed the course. Through the highs and lows, they learned that Christ must always be at the center. They also discovered three essential values that helped sustain them over the years: Communication, Consideration, and Compromise — the 3 C’s that, along with God’s presence, formed their unshakable foundation. Then came December 7, 2024 — a day they’ll never forget. While expecting their first child and preparing for their greatest blessing yet, Elijah got down on one knee and asked Kayla to be his wife. With tears in her eyes and love in her heart, she said YES! There’s no one else either of them would rather do life with. Now, after 8 years of growing in love, grace, and God’s purpose for their lives, Elijah and Kayla are preparing to solidify their union under God’s covering. The number 8 symbolizes new beginnings, resurrection, and a divine shift into something greater. Spiritually, it represents the start of a new order — and that’s exactly what this next chapter is for them: a brand-new beginning, ordained and blessed by God. “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” — Mark 10:9 Their love story is more than just a timeline — it’s a testimony. One built on faith, laughter, trials, and triumphs. And now, they can't wait to say "I do" surrounded by loved ones and in covenant by the One who brought them together.