We’re getting married!

In March of 2023, our paths crossed on the Upward app, a space designed for Christian singles. Both of us were searching for someone who shared our love for God and our desire for a Christ-centered life. From the start, our connection was different—meaningful, refreshing, and filled with purpose. Our first date was a memorable one. We met at the Short Hills Mall, beginning with smoothies and a walk through various stores. Ricardo’s enthusiasm for food quickly surfaced as he announced, “I gotta eat!”—a line that still makes us laugh. That spontaneous dinner at The Cheesecake Factory was where we discovered one of our many contrasts: Ricardo’s lightning-fast eating versus my slow and ‘deliberate’ pace. It was the beginning of our playful teasing that continues to this day. Even before our first date, we spent hours on the phone, sharing our dreams and values. Ricardo’s deep voice and genuine enthusiasm stood out to me. Unlike many, he called me without hesitation, proving his sincerity and confidence. His warmth, paired with his passion for music, intrigued me. While I studied film and plan to start a podcast, Ricardo aspires to be a professional DJ and music producer. Together, we’ve bonded over our shared creativity and overthinking —though he’s a little better at following through than I am. By our second date, Ricardo’s adventurous side shone through as he introduced me to go-karting. I was out of my element, but his zest for fun was contagious. After our third date, he surprised me with a beautiful bouquet of purple flowers, my favorite color, showing his thoughtful and spontaneous nature. From that moment, I was sure he was someone special. We officially became a couple in April, and our relationship blossomed. I admire Ricardo for his kindness, sensitivity, and determination to grow. He inspires me to be more patient and extroverted, while I encourage him to embrace his worth and to step out on faith. Our personalities complement each other beautifully—while we are both kind hearted and love to laugh, I am bold and no nonsense, while he is so sweet, enthusiastic and endlessly patient. We’ve shared countless laughs, from watching ridiculous videos to debating life’s serious and silly moments. Whether planning trips to Savannah and Fort Lauderdale or dreaming about our future, we’ve discovered that life is better when shared. Together, we’re building a life grounded in Jesus Christ, laughter, and unwavering support. We’re excited to begin this new chapter as husband and wife on April 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of our family and friends.