The San Joses

It all started with a simple DM - and now, here we are. 💌 Lou stumbled across Char's Instagram one day and couldn't resist sending a friendly hand-wave 👋🏼 (or three) along with a quick "you're pretty." Normally, Char wouldn't reply to messages from strangers, but she thought Lou might be an old coworker and decided to respond. Lucky for both of them, that one reply turned into a conversation that flowed effortlessly - and before long, Lou asked for her number. Just a few days later, they decided to meet for a blind date in December 2020 - a time when restaurants were still closed. So, they improvised. They went to Alta Loma park, shared sushi from Kamameshi, grabbed "hood drinks" from the Blue Store, and spent nine unforgettable hours together talking, laughing, and realizing how much they already had in common (including a mutual love for good food, great company, and a solid drink or two 🍹). By the end of that first date, they both shared their intentions — respect, communication, and honesty — values that became the foundation of their relationship. Over the years, those intentions grew into something deeper, and their love continued to flourish. Together, they've explored countless restaurants, traveled, and discovered a shared passion for working out. By the end of 2022, they moved in together and started building a life they truly love — one filled with laughter, adventure, and endless support for each other. Then came the proposal. Lou had planned a romantic staycation in Napa and even designed the ring himself. He asked Char's parents for their blessing, and they couldn't have been happier. But, in true Lou fashion, patience wasn't exactly his strong suit. On a regular Monday night at home - while wearing his Snuggie - he grabbed the ring from his drawer, got down on one knee, and asked Char to marry him right there in their living room. Char was completely shocked (and still is!), but of course, she said yes! Their Napa trip turned into the perfect celebration of their engagement. Lou and Char decided to take their time enjoying this season together - attending friends' weddings, bachelor and bachelorette trips, and soaking in every moment. Now, the countdown is on. Next April, it'll be their turn — and they can't wait to celebrate their love surrounded by the people who mean the most. ❤️