Like so many timeless love stories, it all started on a dating app. After feeling endlessly lost in that strange romantic wilderness, Anne and Josh found each other's profiles in April 2023, and connected instantly. But their real-life meeting almost didn't happen: after some initial back-and-forth, Anne - ever the inconsistent texter - went radio silent, leaving Josh wondering what he'd done wrong. When she returned to the conversation a week later, his thoughtful follow-up message proved he was not only someone to keep up with, but someone worth keeping around. In another near-mishap, Josh and Anne's first date was meant to be at then-newly-opened dumpling spot, Xiao Bao, but it was closed (Wednesdays—who knew?). Plan B was Two Ten Jack, where ramen, yuzu sours, and witty banter sealed the deal. They made things official less than two weeks later, and everything else clicked into place. Soon they were meeting each other's families, making plans for the future, and creating lasting memories traveling the US and abroad (ask Josh about Howth, Ireland if you have some time to kill). On Friday, September 13th, 2024, Josh tested his luck one last time: he took a cue from the local surrounds, and proposed near an old garnet mine outside Asheville, NC after a scenic horseback ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains. (Pro tip: if you need to distract Anne, horses and shiny rocks will do the trick!) She said yes, naturally. As Josh and Anne started planning for a fall wedding in Nashville, Anne realized any date they chose would fall within weeks of her parents' 50th anniversary. Instead of trying to compete, Josh and Anne doubled down (with the appropriate blessing, of course!) Now they'll share their wedding anniversary with Jock and Susan Demme on their golden milestone, 10.24.25.

We recognize the time, effort, resources, and care it takes to attend a wedding, especially when long-distance travel is involved. Regardless of whether you're able to come celebrate with us in Nashville, please know how grateful we are to be surrounded by such a loving community of family and friends as we begin our marriage. You are part of the wonderful cast of characters that has enriched our lives, and we're lucky to have you with us on this journey. The best is yet to come! With Love ❤︎ Anne and Josh