We first met folding clothes and restocking shelves at Uniqlo—just coworkers with nothing more than friendly hellos and the occasional small talk. It wasn’t until a night out at a music event with some friends that things started to shift. Neither of us went in thinking anything would happen—we weren’t even sure the other was interested. But as the night went on, so did something else: a quiet, unexpected spark. By the end of the night, we both felt it. Something had changed. Now, if you want to get technical about our very first conversation… Ram did confidently (and incorrectly) guess that Vanessa was Filipino—classic. But as conversations went on, there was something magnetic between us. Ram was quick with jokes, endlessly charming, and full of warmth. Vanessa lit up every room she walked into—effortlessly outgoing, kind, and so easy to talk to. There was no denying it: we were intrigued. After the music event, Ram made the first move and messaged Vanessa. It wasn’t instant—it took a few weeks and a bit of gentle persistence—but eventually, Vanessa gave in to what she was already feeling. And from then on, we couldn’t stay away from each other. Before moving in together, we still managed to see each other every single day. Even if it was just 15 minutes before bed, or a quick drop-in between plans, we’d make it happen. It became our ritual—not because we had to, but because we wanted to. The funny thing is, it wasn’t the hellos that convinced us we were meant to be—it was the goodbyes. Every time we had to part ways, it got harder and harder. That’s how we knew: this wasn’t casual anymore. This was it. From there, our love only grew stronger. No matter how busy or chaotic life got, we always found time for each other. We showed up—in all the small, unglamorous, meaningful ways—and knew we’d always be worth the effort. There’s so much we love about each other. Ram loves Vanessa’s independence, her fire, her unwavering integrity. She’s selfless, resilient, and always stands for what’s right—all while making it look effortless. Vanessa loves the way Ram loves—not just her, but everyone around him. He’s thoughtful, wildly goofy, endlessly kind, and always knows how to make her feel seen. Years later, Ram proposed to Vanessa on her birthday at one of the very first restaurants we ever went to. She thought it was just a simple lunch, and Ram let her think that, until—with the help of some sneaky friends—he got down on one knee in front of Lonsdale Quay and surprised her in the best way possible. Three years into our relationship, we welcomed our beautiful son, Jacob. And now, six years later, we’re finally doing what we’ve known from the beginning—getting married and celebrating this big, beautiful love with the people who have supported us every step of the way. As for what’s next? We already know how it goes: Ram will always clean frequently but imperfectly. Vanessa will clean rarely but perfectly. Ram will always make sure Vanessa’s water bottle is full. And Vanessa will always be the one to speak up when the food order’s wrong. We may be different in how we show love — but we always show up exactly the way the other needs.