How We Met Melissa and Josh met on Cinco de Mayo 2022 at Music on Main in downtown Spartanburg—though Melissa almost didn’t go. After some convincing from a friend, she ended up outside people-watching when Josh, encouraged by his boss (and a few margaritas), worked up the courage to talk to her. His carefully planned pickup line completely disappeared, but somehow, it worked. After awkwardly asking if she was single, Melissa hesitated, then gave him her number—which he used immediately. God was already writing a story neither of them could have planned. ⸻ The First Date A few days later, Melissa asked Josh to grab a drink. He had been ready for bed but quickly changed plans. After a few stops downtown, they ended up at the AC Hotel bar, where a simple drink turned into hours of conversation. From that night on, they talked every day about life, faith, and sometimes aliens and ghosts. ⸻ Growing Together Melissa and Josh knew this relationship was different. Melissa had strong, intentional standards for a healthy, lasting relationship, and Josh embraced them fully. Before Melissa’s dad passed, Josh asked for his blessing to marry her. Her dad welcomed him to the family and even danced around the kitchen singing, “there’s going to be a wedding”—a memory Melissa will always treasure. Josh became a steady source of support for Melissa and her family, and together they’ve learned to lean on each other and trust God to guide their steps. ⸻ Blending Our Families Josh’s two boys were introduced to Melissa after careful thought and quickly welcomed her. Melissa’s nieces and goddaughters also became a big part of their lives, and together the kids have formed a bond that feels like cousins growing up side by side. Josh’s family has also embraced Melissa as their own, making her feel at home—especially meaningful since she has little family nearby. His mom, in particular, has been excited to gain another daughter-in-law, which has made this new chapter even more special. From trips to Niagara Falls and the beach to Disney World and visits in Ohio, they’ve built a big, blended family full of laughter, memories, and love. ⸻ The Proposal Josh nervously planned the proposal at the botanical gardens near Clemson. With a photographer ready, he got down on one knee and asked Melissa to marry him. She said yes, smiling the whole time—a moment they’ll both choose again in any lifetime. ⸻ The Beginning of Forever Melissa and Josh’s story is one of unexpected beginnings, intentional love, faith, and laughter. With God at the center and the joy of Melissa’s dad’s blessing in their hearts, they know this is only the beginning of something even greater.