In August 2022, an unexpected chapter unfolded in Scottsdale, Arizona, when Steven, living in Houston, and Jessica, enjoying life in Chicago, met during a bachelor and bachelorette party weekend. Though their lives seemed worlds apart, fate had other plans. One night at a bar, their paths crossed. Jessica, one of the few single girls at her party, found herself being set up by the bride-to-be. With no hesitation, the bride-to-be shouted to Steven, "You! Are you single?! Are you religious?!"—and just like that, their love story began. Just a few weeks later, Steven flew to Chicago for their first date. They had dinner at Jessica’s favorite Italian spot, Topo Gigio, followed by a comedy show at Zanies. Sitting front and center, they caught the comedian’s attention. As he pried into their story, the crowd learned how they’d met in Arizona, how Steven had flown in from Houston, and that it was their very first date. Steven proudly shared their story, and in that moment, Jessica thought, "This is someone I could see myself spending forever with." In October 2022, Jessica made the trip to Houston. Steven planned a perfect day filled with horseback riding and a fancy seafood dinner. However, things didn’t go exactly as planned—little did Steven know that Jessica is highly allergic to horses! Thankfully, a quick dose of allergy medicine saved the day, and they both knew that their journey together was just beginning. After nearly a year of long-distance dating, Jessica moved to Houston in July 2023. Soon after, they bought their first home together, marking the start of their future.

November 2023, Steven asked for her parents' blessing, and a few months later, in a fairy-tale proposal at their favorite winery in Fredericksburg, Texas, surrounded by family and friends, Steven asked Jessica to marry him. It was the perfect beginning to their forever. What started as two strangers in a bar has grown into a love story that only God could have written. Despite the distance, challenges, and life changes, they have become each other’s greatest supporters and continue to make one another better every day. As they enter this next chapter, they look forward to growing even more in love, being patient and kind to one another, and building a family centered on Christ. They’re so excited to begin this new adventure as husband and wife and are incredibly grateful to have everyone by their side to support, witness, and celebrate their marriage with them. Can't wait to see you all in Texas!