we are getting married!!

It all began with a gentle nudge from Joyce's pastor, who insisted that she should give online dating a try. "Join Coffee Meets Bagel," he said, twisting her arm ever so slightly. She was always so hesitant with joining one of these platforms, but with a little more nudging Joyce caved and got the premium version to train the AI properly. On the other hand, I—happy with the free version—hadn't come across her profile yet. But then, one day, Joyce found mine. Something about it stood out, and before she knew it, she was sending me virtual flowers. It was a small gesture, but it was all it took to connect. As soon as we started talking, our profiles and conversations revealed a bunch of shared interests: family, faith, hosting, travel, and an undeniable love for trying new things. It was almost as if every similarity was a stepping stone toward something greater. Eager to meet in person, I planned our first date at Mediterra, a charming restaurant in Princeton. But that morning, I had been in a car accident. Though I was beaten up, I refused to cancel the plans. I didn’t want anything to get in the way of meeting Joyce, so I decided to play it off as if nothing had happened. When we finally sat across from each other at the restaurant, it felt like time melted away. We talked and laughed for hours, barely noticing the staff beginning to close up for the night. Despite having only just met, there was a deep sense of familiarity between us, as though we had known each other for years. Our undeniable competitive spirit, playful banter, and instant spark made it impossible not to want to get to know each other better. By the end of the evening, I felt that this date was no coincidence. And while we often joke now about why it took so long for our paths to cross, I was grateful that it had happened when it did—when the time was just right.

3:30 AM to 9:30 AM — An early morning back The day started in Orlando, Florida. Horace and I were just coming back from a wonderful trip to Disney World (it was my first time there!). The Uber picked us up and we headed to the airport to make our 6:00am flight. We planned to get back earlier because his friends had a Fall party later that day and we wanted to make it. (Remember that detail: it's important!) The flight was really long and delayed, but we made it back! My parents picked us up from the airport. Initially, I thought it was strange because he works on Saturdays. When we got in the car I asked my dad, "Why are you here? Why aren't you at work?" He responded, "Oh, you know.. I took the morning off since it's been slow." I should’ve known something was off then, but I brushed it off. My parents dropped us off at my place, then I drove Horace home. 10:30 AM — Completely unaware Once I got back to my place, I got ready for the party. I was rushing a bit because I didn’t want to be late for the party (which was 1 hour up north). After I was dressed, I almost left but decided at the last minute to put on some light blush and lip color. The party had a "NICE fall vibes" theme with a "Korean drama family portrait" photoshoot and I wanted to make sure I looked the part! Finally ready, I texted Horace, "On my way!" so we could drive to the party together. 12:05 PM — Shock & disbelief When I got to Horace’s house, I was planning to wait for him in the living room. But after I walked in, the first thing I saw was red rose petals all over the floor. My tired mind thought, "What is this?!" And while taking off my sandals, I heard a noise on my left. Brian, Horace's brother, walked out of the coat closet with his cell phone. I said to myself, "What the heck is he doing in there?" Completely unaware of what was about to happen, I walked down the hallway towards the living room. I saw Horace standing with a bouquet of my favorite flowers, tealight candles on the floor, and bright letters on the couch that spelled out, MARRY ME. In shock and a bit scared I blurted out, "Oh no!" and walked back down the hallway. As I turned around, I saw my parents. I thought, "Why are my parents here?!" Slightly nervous and tense, Horace said, "I told you today was going to be a very eventful day . . come over here.” When I stood in front of him it felt like everything in the room was spinning except the two of us. Focused on his beautiful words and wiping his tears, I could only muster up the word and answer, “yes.” I was genuinely shocked and speechless. (And I’m rarely speechless!) ~2:00 PM to 5:30 PM — Party time I'll spare the extra details and summarize this. So, this wasn't just a "Fall party." It was also a surprise/mini engagement party for us. And the "photoshoot" was secretly a way for me to dress up (amazing job on Horace's part). The party was super fun, we celebrated someone's birthday, and celebrated our engagement with sweet friends from Horace's church. ~5:30 PM — A delayed reaction The drive back from the party was silent at first. I kept trying to process the day, and slowly the shock and disbelief wore off. I said, "Horace... we're engaged?" To which he responded, "Yes Joyce, we're engaged." I went, "WE'RE ENGAGED? OH MY GOSH... WE'RE ENGAGED!!!" Then the entire day hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt super overwhelmed and I cried for the rest of the drive back. After 10 months of dating, we were engaged.

Looking back, neither of us could have imagined that we would find each other. We are so shocked by how intentional God has been throughout the years. We believe it's deeper than luck—it's God's blessing, faithfulness, and favor over not just us, but our families too. In the highs and lows, whether before or after we met, the Lord was in the midst of it all. Every circumstance was purposeful in preparing us for this very moment. To you—the one reading this—we are so thankful for your place in our lives because it made us who we are today. We can't wait to see you in April and celebrate at OUR WEDDING!!!!