We felt an immediate connection when we matched on Hinge in September 2022. We discussed our love of cooking and exploring new restaurants, and bonded over our love for the Indonesian food at Simpang Asia. Unfortunately, within days of matching, Sam had to leave on a work trip to Taiwan for 10 days. Having felt such a strong bond in those first days, we texted nonstop while he was gone. We finally had our first date at the Santa Monica Pier on October 8, 2022 which transitioned to lunch at Meet on Ocean and a walk through the nearby park. Three hours later, we went home knowing we found someone special. We continued our habit of texting constantly through the day and followed up with several more dates. We had our first kiss at the Huntington Library and there was no turning back. We soon made it official, fell in love, and introduced each other to our families. We continue to bond over our love of restaurants (particularly sushi and Thai), TV shows, spending time with our friends and families, traveling, and exploring fun things to do around LA. On April 27, 2024, we went back to the Huntington Library, where we had our first kiss and first Valentine’s, to visit the gardens and have high tea for what Jess believed to be a celebration for Sam’s birthday. Beside a bridge and a cherry blossom tree in the Japanese Garden, Sam got down on one knee and Jess said yes! Thus began the celebration and the beginning of our future together! We are so excited to begin the rest of our lives together and can’t wait to celebrate with you! With love, Jess and Sam