In the Summer of 2015, fate brought Thao and Michael together through the youth group of their church, "Our Lady of Vietnam." They got along very well and quickly became good friends. Little did they know that their friendship would blossom into something more. Michael, being the extremely friendly and extrovert that he is, began inviting Thao out to all sorts of events. However, Thao didn't readily accept his invitations as she was unfamiliar with his friends outside of the church. It took a gentle nudge from her mom, reminding her of the importance of being open to new experiences, for Thao to finally say yes to a cookout Michael had invited her to one summer night. To make the event more enjoyable, Thao brought along her best friend, Lexi. The gathering took place at Michael's best friend Thien's house, providing the perfect opportunity for them to hang out outside the confines of the church. As they spent time together, their friendship grew stronger, and Thao became acquainted with more of Michael's friends. Over the years, their bond deepened, and they got to know each other on a profound level. Thao and Michael became best friends in no time. As they shared more experiences and created lasting memories together, feelings of affection began to take root after a couple years time, and they realized they were meant to be more than just best friends. Finally, in the winter of 2017, with hearts full of courage and love, they decided to take the leap and move beyond the friend zone. Their decision marked the beginning of a beautiful and loving relationship, and they haven't looked back since. From best friends to soulmates, Thao and Michael's journey has been filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support for one another. As they embark on the next chapter of their lives together, they cherish the foundation of friendship that brought them together and look forward to a future filled with endless happiness and love.

Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Outer Banks, Thao and Michael were enjoying their annual friend beach trip. Little did Thao know that this vacation would become the canvas for a breathtaking proposal and a week-long celebration of love. Strategically, Thao's family had also chosen the Outer Banks for their annual family vacation, overlapping with the friend group's stay. It was an happy coincidence that would add an extra touch of magic to the upcoming days. As the week drew to a close, Michael and Thao prepared to bid farewell to the friends' trip and drove over to welcome Thao's family during their traditional sunset group pictures. Little did Thao know that Michael had meticulously planned a grand surprise proposal to make this moment even more special. With the help of their dear friends and family, Michael set the stage for an enchanting proposal on the sandy shore. Roses and candles adorned the beach, leading to a romantic arch that would become the center of their unforgettable moment. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the beach, Thao was filled with excitement and anticipation. She had no idea what awaited her just around the corner. As Thao and Michael arrived to the family house, Michael ran in first to take his place. Thao's sister walked with her through the house to the backyard where she then walked up and over the long boardwalk that led directly to the beach. Thao's heart skipped a beat when she finally saw the romantic view Michael had orchestrated all for her. In a heartfelt gesture, Michael dropped to one knee in front of their beloved friends and family, his voice filled with emotion as he professed his love. It was a moment frozen in time as he presented Thao with a dazzling ring. Overwhelmed with joy, Thao's tears of happiness spoke volumes. With an exuberant nod, she said "Yes!" to the love of her life, surrounded by the cheers and applause of the ~70 loved ones on the beach. But the surprises didn't end there. Unknown to Thao, Michael had secretly coordinated with his own family and Thao's best friend to join Thao's family for the overlapping weekend. The gathering of loved ones from both sides added an extra layer of warmth to the celebration. To continue the festivities, Thao's dad had arranged for a huge beachfront Airbnb, transforming the family vacation into a week-long engagement party for everyone to enjoy. The days that followed were filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and cherished memories. The beachfront paradise became a haven of love and celebration, as friends and family united in support of the newly engaged couple. As the week came to a close, Thao and Michael were grateful for the serendipity that brought them all together in this beautiful place. The Outer Banks had witnessed their love story unfold, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. Now, as they embark on their journey towards marriage, they carry with them the love and support of their cherished friends and family. With hearts full of joy and anticipation, they look forward to their wedding day and a lifetime of happiness together. Their engagement in the Outer Banks will always be a cherished memory, reminding them of the magic that can happen when love and destiny intertwine. Hand in hand, they step into the future, ready to embrace every moment of their extraordinary love story.