Apparently, the universe had been trying to introduce us since 2006… we just weren’t paying attention. We actually crossed paths years ago without realizing it. Two people existing in the same world, probably within feet of each other, completely unaware that we’d one day be planning a wedding together. If the “invisible string theory” is real, ours must have been working overtime. Fast forward to 2023, when we officially met the modern way, online. Before we ever saw each other in person, we talked, laughed, and got to know one another through messages and late-night conversations. Somewhere between sharing stories and comparing life experiences, something just clicked. One of our first discoveries? We both drove Volkswagen cars. Out of all the things to have in common, it was that quirky little detail that made us laugh and think, “Okay… this is kind of meant to be.” Parallel parking and parallel lives, apparently. Then came the moment that sealed it. I’ll never forget the first time we met in person. When I saw Jarod walking up to the trolley station, everything slowed down. I didn’t just hope he was “the one”... I knew. Calm, certain, butterflies-and-all-at-once knew. From that day on, we’ve been inseparable. What started as two almost-strangers crossing paths years apart became best friends, partners, and forever. Turns out the universe was right all along. We just needed a dating app and a couple of Volkswagens to finally get the message.