God's Timing is Always Perfect. If you ask me (Makayla), I met Joey at the beginning of freshman year. However, Joey does not remember that. He re-met me a total of 5 times before he remembered my name. In junior year, Joey and I began going to the same church and spent time together in the same friend group. We became close very fast, and I started to have a crush that December. I can go on and on about how much I love him, but I was first drawn to his ability to make people feel seen and cared for. He made me feel seen. Even though it was clear to everyone else, it wasn't until almost a full year later that Joey realized he liked me. He asked me on a date in December 2024, and we became official a week later. After a fun friendship and a beautiful relationship, we are excited to be one under God!

After dating for over a year, I (Joey) was ready to propose to Makayla. She was *very* ready for this to happen but I decided to keep it a surprise. I promised I would propose in December ‘25 or January ‘26. While she patiently waited and only asking a few questions, I began to prepare! However, it was much more complicated than I thought. After months of trying to find the right ring with many setbacks I ordered a custom ring to arrive January 23rd. Eager to maintain the deadline I set, I planned and schemed with my friends and Makayla’s roommates (some of the greatest bridesmaids and groomsmen we could ask for). Unfortunately, the only time that truly worked perfectly was February 1st. Acting distraught, I apologized to Makayla and promised to propose in February, which made her less suspicious. With the date set and help acquired, I planned the proposal at a beautiful park called the Riparian Preserve with a surprise party to follow. With the help of our wonderful community and the favor of God, the proposal goes perfectly and Makayla was beyond surprised.