We’re Saying I Do

Our story begins the way many great ones do — with a chance encounter quietly guided by fate. At the time, we were both navigating difficult seasons of life: a little bruised by the world, but determined to rise above it. In a world that often feels heavy with division, we were each searching for love — the kind that frees you, steadies you, and reminds you what truly matters. That search led us to online dating, where a speed-dating app paired us together. What began as a simple match quickly turned into a meaningful conversation about values, purpose, and the kind of lives we hoped to build. Before long, we agreed to meet in person at a restaurant in Myrtle Beach that was hosting a charity fundraiser for cancer research — a fitting place for two people who cared deeply about making the world a little better. Jemama arrived first — kind-hearted, radiant, and determined to take care of the good people in her life — wearing a stunning pink dress and carrying a cautious optimism about the future. Matthew followed soon after, a dreamer with a clear vision of teaching the world how to live peacefully and with purpose, feeling perfectly at ease in his black t-shirt. Good food led to great conversation. One date turned into another… and then another. Before we knew it, we were celebrating Jemama’s birthday together aboard a cruise ship headed for the Bahamas — just over one year after we first agreed to begin this journey side by side. Though we hadn’t been together long, we had lived enough life to recognize something rare: we had found our person. Between ocean sunsets, dolphin encounters, and enthusiastically imperfect karaoke performances, our love continued to grow. One evening, during a formal dinner on the ship, a live singer unknowingly serenaded us with a song that felt written just for that moment. As the music ended and our meals were cleared, dessert seemed oddly delayed. Jemama, dressed once again in a gorgeous pink dress, waited patiently — unaware that something unforgettable was on its way. When the waiter finally returned, he brought more than dessert. Written in icing was a question, accompanied by a ring that sparkled nearly as brightly as she did. Matthew took the ring, knelt on one knee, and asked the most important question of his life: “Will you be my wife, and make me the happiest man alive?” With tears of joy in her eyes, Jemama answered without hesitation: “Yes — I will marry you.” And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the love story that brings us here — and why we are honored to invite you to witness and celebrate the beginning of our forever.