It all began with an online dating group that one of Lila's friends created. John first saw Lila's profile in September 2019, and once he saw her picture he said, "WOW!" and proceeded to hit the 'Add Friend' button. He had no way of knowing that the waiting period between that moment and when she replied with an 'Accept' would be a long couple of months... Lila finally saw John's friend request months later, also said, 'WOW!' and accepted it in February of 2020. Life happened, COVID happened, new jobs happened, a move from SoCal to NorCal for Lila happened, and they lost touch for a couple of months. A renewed interest in the friendship sparked in July of 2020, and things moved quickly from there. They heard the other's voice for the first time, shyly FaceTimed for the first time, exchanged letters for the first time, and from then, the communication kept building. Long, wistful conversations occupied evening nights, and they became sweeter over time. Then, it was time to make a decision....did they actually want to pursue a long-distance relationship? Both knew that it was time to start building a life with someone, but was he/she the one? John took a determining step and bravely booked a flight out to California that August. A week in California was adventurous and meaningful, but questions still remained. It wasn't until Lila's visit to Connecticut in October, as the leaves in the New England were changing, that they realized their lives were changing as well! From there they planned to take those fateful steps forward and pursue marriage. On New Years Day, 2021, John asked Lila to marry him and she said yes! Planning and preparations followed. More long conversations ensued, as venues, food, attire, travel plans and all were discussed through phone calls and FaceTimes made over three thousand miles and a three hour time difference. And yet, it all came together. On July 1st, John and Lila were happily married in Santa Barbara, California. A modest gathering of family and friends (as much as the COVID restrictions would allow) were in attendance and a joyous occasion it was. Early on, it became clear that two people from two different sides of the country wanted to celebrate with those close to them, despite the distance and social restrictions. It was agreed that a ceremony in California and a reception in Connecticut would be ideal. After the ceremony, the three thousand mile drive, a collectively settling in to new routines in Connecticut, a new job for Lila, and the survival of the winter (a first for Lila!) the time presented itself to celebrate here in New England! John and Lila remain so thankful to God for having brought them together. And they also remain thankful for the indelible impact that YOU have made on their lives and the contribution you have and will make on their marriage. They hope that you are able to attend a celebration for a coming together of two people, from California to Connecticut! And they can't wait to celebrate with you!