We're getting married!

The story of Jed and Tabitha begins on Tinder, believe it or not. Like many single people looking for love in a time of abundant caution and quarantine, they had stuck it out on various dating websites, discouragingly wading through failed match after match and unsure when or if they would meet anyone worth the risk. In fact, Tabitha was considering deleting her profile entirely. But... Then came Jed. Her profile was refreshingly wholesome and friendly; his sounded like the sweet, funny boy-next-door. And his dog won her heart at first sight. He was recovering from having his tonsils removed, and she recommended french onion soup. She was looking for someone who could carry a conversation, and he kept the conversation going for hours, then days, and now two years later they've decided to pursue their own version of happily ever after. They've had far fewer "typical" dates outside of their home than average, thanks to the global pandemic. Instead, they've made the most of their trips to the grocery store and bonded over their shared love of true crime, competitive television, movies great and terrible, eclectic musical selections, the occasional puzzle or board game, and their adorably loveable handful of a bernedoodle pup, Binx. Their love story hasn't developed through particularly traditional circumstances, nor has it been what either of them expected. Instead, God had a plan and has proven, yet again, that He can and will exceed expectations to give us exactly what we need. Now, Tabitha and Jed can't wait to make their vows in front of God and their closest family and friends!

It's hard to say when either knew for the first time that a marriage was in their future, but the decision to get engaged became the natural next step in Jed and Tabitha's journey. From early on, they were talking about their plans and hopes for the future. They started making plans and decisions around each other without a question. Of course, buying a puppy together was really the ultimate declaration of love and commitment - a serious discussion that took place in Tabitha's car in a stall at Sonic while waiting for their dinner and ice cream treats. "You know, if we get a puppy together, that's it. There's no turning back. You're stuck with me forever," she said. "I know," he replied. And that was that. Decision made. Binx crashed into their lives as a spectacular, cherished mess. A wedding date was selected and a venue was booked. Jed made Tabitha's Type-A little heart happy by taking her ring shopping. She fell in love with a ring, then he let her wear it out of the store with smiles on both their faces. Of course, it has to be said that Jed did, in fact, pick out the wedding band to go with Tabitha's ring all on his own, and the whole thing was perfectly them. Nothing over the top or dramatic, just growing love, steadfast commitment, and a sprinkle of stubborn faith.