We believe that our love story is one of redemption—a testament to how God’s incredible love has lead us to profound healing, transformation, and reconciliation to God and one another. When we met, neither of us had yet fully surrendered to the overwhelming grace of Jesus, and our lives looked very different from what they are today.

Our paths first crossed in the summer of 2019 in Seattle. It was at a party, and though the atmosphere was filled with noise and conversation, it felt like the world paused for a moment. We found ourselves deep in conversation about our shared passion for youth advocacy. For hours, it felt like we were the only two people in the room. There was an undeniable spark, but neither of us worked up the courage to exchange contact information before the night ended. As we walked away, both of us were lost in thought—Markeese kicking himself for not asking, and Haley feeling a quiet certainty in her heart that if it was meant to be, our paths would cross again. Markeese, ever the optimist, held onto hope, and as fate would have it, we didn’t have to wait long. James 4:13-15 reminds us that “if it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” Indeed, God’s timing was at work. A few weeks later, Markeese ran into some of Haley’s friends from that party. He gathered up the nerve to ask if they could pass along his number to her, and sure enough, about a week later, Haley texted him. What followed were hours upon hours of messages, getting to know each other on a deeper level. Eventually, Markeese took the plunge and asked Haley out on a date—though unbeknownst to him, Haley didn’t even think of it as a date at the time (and we still joke about that to this day).

On the day of the “date,” it was a perfect summer afternoon in Seattle. When Haley walked outside to meet Markeese, he was completely stunned by how beautiful she looked. We walked to the restaurant, Taste of India, and sat outside to enjoy the warmth and each other’s company. Markeese was so nervous, he couldn’t even eat! When it came time to pay, he, in true gentleman fashion, tried to cover the bill, but Haley insisted on splitting it, something that really impressed him. This moment spoke volumes about who Haley was—independent, strong, and kind. After dinner, we went out dancing and laughed the night away. Proverbs 31:10 says, “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” From that very first date, it was clear that Haley was one of a kind. Over the next few days, we couldn’t get enough of each other. What started as a simple connection quickly grew into a deeper, more vulnerable relationship, and we soon became boyfriend and girlfriend. The next two and a half years were filled with both highs and lows. We faced personal struggles, overcame past traumas, and navigated the challenges of life and love. The pandemic brought its own set of challenges, and we experienced loss. Eventually, our relationship came to a difficult crossroads, and we knew it was time to part ways.

During our time apart, Haley moved back to Colorado to be closer to her family, and Markeese stayed in Seattle. Yet, what neither of us expected was that this season of separation would lead to a miraculous transformation. Each of us, in our own time, came to know Jesus in a way that completely changed us. Our lives, our hearts, and our perspectives were forever altered by His love and forgiveness. It was nothing short of a miracle. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” Through prayer, quiet moments with God, and His steadfast guidance, we began to let go of the past and the pain we had been carrying. We experienced a new understanding of His unyielding love and grace. It was then that we knew we could come back together—this time with a love that was stronger, deeper, and rooted in faith.

Fast forward to a weekend getaway in the mountains of Northwest Colorado. We stayed in a remote, beautiful cabin called Columbine Estates. Surrounded by nature, with breathtaking hikes and even a wood-fire sauna, the setting was perfect. We wrapped up the weekend at Strawberry Hot Springs, which offered stunning views of the mountains. On Friday night, in our cozy little cabin, with the warmth of the wood stove and a sky full of stars, Markeese proposed. There was no cell reception, no distractions—just the two of us. It was spontaneous, heartfelt, and perfect. Funny enough, the original plan was to propose the next day during a hike with Haley’s brother, Hudson, and his wife, Kate. But sometimes, the best moments are the ones you don’t plan. They joined us Saturday afternoon, and we spent the rest of the weekend celebrating together.

Today, we stand together, changed and beautifully made in His image. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” It’s because of Jesus that we can share this story of redemption and love. We are so excited to share our journey with you. It’s a story of two people who once wandered in darkness, but through God’s grace, found each other—and found the light that can only come from Him. We hope our story inspires you, reminds you of the power of love, and gives you a glimpse of what redemption truly looks like. Thank you for being a part of our story as we take the next step into this beautiful journey of marriage, love, and faith.