We’re getting Married

A Lifetime of Summers Paris and Avion’s story began long before they actually met. They went to high school together, knew many of the same people, and even crossed paths in unexpected ways — Avion once had an apartment that Paris later lived in. Yet somehow, they never officially met or even heard of each other. In 2018, they finally crossed paths while working together for a few weeks at a summer camp through Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation. Even then, they barely interacted. But in the summer of 2019, everything changed when they worked together for the entire summer. Their students constantly joked about them dating and how cute they would be together. At first, neither of them paid much attention to it, but over time the jokes became funnier and harder to ignore. Paris would always ask if anyone wanted something to eat while he was out, and somehow Avion always needed something. What started as simple conversations grew into a genuine friendship filled with laughter, jokes, and unforgettable moments. As the summer came to an end, they grew even closer. On August 15, 2019, after camp ended, Paris and Avion started texting — just casually talking about what the rest of the summer would bring. Little did they know, that summer would become a lifetime of summers, a lifetime of laughter, and a lifetime of shared experiences. In January 2020, Avion and Paris officially started dating… and the rest is history.

The Proposal Story Paris: I bought the ring about two months before the proposal and somehow managed to keep it a secret the entire time. I didn’t tell anyone until the day before because I was nervous I’d accidentally give it away. The plan was supposed to happen at another restaurant, but after driving around for a while, we realized our “first option” had already closed. So, I quickly switched the plan to LA Bistro — where all of her family and friends were already waiting for us. I picked Avion up and told her we were just going on a nice date, which wasn’t unusual for us because we love dressing up and spending time together. The whole drive there, I was trying to act normal while secretly panicking and making sure everything was still coming together. Once we walked into LA Bistro and she saw everyone there, I knew the moment had finally become real. Avion: I honestly had no idea what was happening. Paris just told me we were going on a date and to dress nice, which is pretty normal for us because we always enjoy getting dressed up and having cute date nights. I was just excited to spend time together. But when we walked into the restaurant and I saw all of our family and friends there, I was completely shocked. It instantly hit me what was happening, and I got so emotional. The entire day felt so beautiful, loving, and full of happiness. Even with the unexpected restaurant switch, everything turned out perfect. It’s truly a moment I would relive over and over again forever.

Some of our favorite things to do together are traveling, seeing the world, and creating new memories wherever we go. We love being creative together, making art, trying new foods, and finding little adventures in everyday life. We also enjoy praying together and keeping each other grounded through every season of life. But honestly, one of our favorite things is simply being in each other’s company. Whether we’re out exploring or just relaxing together, every moment feels special when we’re together.

Paris: One of the biggest things I’ve learned about love is choosing to love intentionally and unconditionally. I’ve learned that it’s not our job to hold people hostage to who they used to be. Instead, it’s our job to walk beside them through every version of themselves and honor who they are becoming along the way. Love is growing together, giving grace, and continuing to choose each other through every season. Avion: I’ve learned patience and what it truly means to love someone unconditionally. Watching Paris take care of his dad showed me God’s love through a person. It taught me that real love isn’t always easy or convenient, but it’s faithful, selfless, and present no matter what. That changed the way I see relationships and the way I love.

Who said “I love you” first? Paris says it was him… but it was definitely Avion. Who is funnier? Avion Who takes longer to get ready? Avion Favorite date spots? Pinball Pete’s and BJ’s Restaurant Who’s more competitive? Paris Favorite snack together? Mr. Pizza, cookie skillets, and Insomnia Cookies Who’s most likely to start a random dance battle? Probably both of us Favorite thing to do together on a chill day? Get food, relax, and enjoy each other’s company What describes your relationship best? Best friends, partners, and teammates for life