September 2016 James and Amber met while serving as Peace Corps volunteers in the Republic of North Macedonia. They quickly bonded over their shared midwestern pride, love of Alan Jackson, and obsession with ajvar (a Macedonian specialty!). As the weeks passed they learned how to flirt with each other not only in English, but also in Macedonian. After a few weeks, James asked Amber out using two of her favorite things: chocolate and music. The rest is history!
February 2021 James proposed to Amber at sunset on February 12th in front of the Lincoln Memorial.