J + K

James and Kiana’s story started at Saint Dominic Catholic School in Benicia, California when they were just 7 years old. Both having last names that begin with “Mc”, they were always sat next to each other, desks side by side, yet they didn’t speak much. The shy glances that lasted too long showed them that it was something special, though. Their connection grew over the years. They went to Mass together every Friday morning, sat side by side with their heads bowed in prayer. Actually, they’d often pray to one day marry each other, unaware that God had exactly that in store for them. In third grade, James wrote a love letter to Kiana. It read, “Kiana, I hope you feel the same way as I do about you. Love, your Secret Admirer”. Although a small note, it carried big beginnings. By seventh grade, they weren’t just classmates— they were a couple. The relationship was as sweet as it was awkward. They were sitting in the back of the school bus on a field trip when Kiana kissed James on the cheek for the first time. James’s cheeks were quickly blushed red and the entire class whispered about it for the day. After their short relationship they graduated from Saint Dominic School together and attended different high schools. This came with new challenges but they remained friends, even texting each other their dreams and favorite songs everyday. By the end of high school, they reconnected and knew they had something worth holding onto. They proceeded to graduate high school and college together, the hardest part of their journey as they worked through two and half years of long distance as James attended Cal Maritime and Kiana attended the University of North Texas. The miles between them felt endless at times. They missed out on anniversaries, holidays, and highs and lows together. Every visit was a precious gift. On July 2nd, 2024 James asked Kiana the most important question of their lives. In that moment, when James was on one knee, everything they had been through— the playground games, love letters, long distance visits, waiting— had been worth it. Their wedding is set for October 24th, 2026, and they couldn’t be more excited to share their next chapter with you.