We met in the 2019 as participants in a summer internship program through National Student Leadership. Both of us had internships in Washington, D.C. and lived among 40 other college students who, like us, had committed the summer to learn about and grow in faith and relationships. In the final week of the program, we went on a few dates that ultimately didn't turn into anything greater. (One of those "right person, wrong time" moments). Over a year later in the fall of 2020, our paths crossed again. We each decided to return to D.C. to participate in a year long post-graduate fellowship program for a more in-depth season of personal and spiritual growth. After nine months of apparently not-so-subtle flirting, we decided to give it another go. We began dating in May 2021 and our love began to blossom.

When we were first falling in love, we frequented a walking trail in Arlington, Virginia. There was a bench along a path that we would stay up talking and laughing together for what felt like minutes, but really were several hours. Once we even stayed out until the morning birds started chirping! On Lila's 24th birthday, we returned to the walking trail after a morning church service. Unbeknownst to Lila, our friends had set up decorations, photos of us, and champagne at the bench for the proposal. Jason then got down on one knee and Lila said yes! Many friends and family joined us in celebrating our engagement later that evening at a surprise party. Now we are so excited to celebrate our marriage with even more of you!