Before we even knew each other, the Lord had already written His plans for us. Our story began where we both love to be: serving together on our church's production team, where we slowly built a beautiful friendship. ​God began to gently steer our hearts toward one another, starting with a meaningful heart-to-heart conversation in the production booth in August 2023. At the time, Sofia was facing a difficult decision. Richard not only brought wise words, but offered a reassuring, comforting, and encouraging presence. The Lord used him to bring her the strength and peace she needed in that exact moment, and from there, a spark was ignited. ​The real turning point came during a bonfire with friends. Richard overheard Sofia talking about the qualities she prayed for in a future partner and the dreams she had for her life. Hearing her heart, Richard realized their visions for the future were perfectly aligned. ​However, there was a challenge: the hard decision Sofia had been wrestling with of moving out of state for God's calling in her life. Instead of walking away, Richard leaned on God's wisdom and decided to figure out how to make it work. He chose to intentionally pursue her—waking up at dawn to pick her up for their running small group, spending quality time with her and her family, and slowly making a way into her heart. ​On August 1, 2024, Richard took her to a beautiful morning beach walk. During our conversation, with the sunrise in the background, we decided to put our fears aside and trust the Lord. We officially decided to pursue a relationship, giving ourselves a one-year deadline to intentionally date, learn about each other, and see if we could bridge the distance. ​Our long-distance relationship wasn't always easy, but we were determined in our pursuit. Through every hardship and all the miles spent apart, our love for one another only deepened. With wise counsel, patience, perseverance, and above all, God's favor, we made it! And it was, on November 8, 2025—through a beautifully executed plan—that Richard popped the big question: “Would you marry me?” To which Sofia's answered, “Of course!” ​God’s hand has been visible in our story from the very beginning, and we are excited to start this beautiful life together—loving each other, loving others, and building God’s kingdom together.