Pavan and Sailaja grew up in towns minutes away from each other and then went on to attend the same university, only a year apart. However, the universe is funny sometimes. Their paths didn't intersect until they were ready for each other: years after their college days, in 2018. Pavan, an introverted medical student, took Sailaja, an extroverted digital marketer, out to dinner in New Brunswick on a cold winter night. First date nerves meant Pavan was quieter than usual and Sailaja was chattier than usual and yet, they knew something about their connection was special. They bonded over high school teachers being unable to pronounce their names, their similar close knit family structures and commiserated over Rutgers survival stories. They walked away that night, highly aware of their differences, but even more aware of an undeniable spark that would only continue to grow...

Sailaja is a bit of a romantic and loves a good grand gesture. Understandably, Pavan felt the pressure to deliver an unforgettable proposal and, wow, did he deliver... On December 30, 2023, Pavan surprised Sailaja with one of the best days of her life. He took her to Cira Green, a gorgeous park on top of an eleven story building with breathtaking views of Philadelphia. He delivered an incredibly romantic speech and asked her to marry him. She immediately said yes and he presented her with her carefully curated rose gold engagement ring and a bouquet of red roses. Knowing Sailaja had really wanted professional photos from their proposal, he hired a photographer to take advantage of the beautiful backdrop of the city and the happy occasion. Sailaja keeps those photos at her desk at work and still smiles every time she sees them. After the photoshoot, Pavan made reservations at her favorite restaurant in the city, Charlie Was a Sinner, a cozy vegan place in Center City. After dinner, Pavan presented Sailaja with five envelopes numbered 1 through 5. Each envelope contained a poem summarizing the corresponding year they had spent together and a personalized gift. Talk about saving the best for last: Sailaja could hardly get through each card without tearing up (good thing he did this after the photoshoot!)