Our love story unfolded on the most serendipitous of encounters, beginning at a blind double date with our mutual friends, Sam and Grace. Little did we know that this seemingly ordinary evening would set in motion a love that would span almost 3,000 miles in college and lead to a beautiful proposal on the island of Kaua'i.

We graduated high school shortly after meeting each other, and our academic pursuits led us to separate colleges across the country. Sarah attended the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and James went to the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. The distance only seemed to strengthen our bond. Countless late-night calls, weekend cross-country trips, heartfelt letters, and surprise care packages became the foundation of our relationship. Our love grew through the trials and triumphs of college life, making every reunion all the sweeter.

James was able to move out to the west coast after graduating and landed a job opportunity in San Francisco. Though we were still long distance, it was a quick 30 minute flight to see each other. As our love deepened, the anticipation of reuniting at the end of each week became an eager ache that continued to strengthen our affection for each other.

While COVID-19 forced the world to pause in 2020, it became the catalyst that allowed us to spend more time together and fall deeper in love. We both moved back to Virginia and we navigated the uncertainties of a global pandemic side by side. Our days were filled with laughter, cooking experiments, road trips, and many amazing weekends spending time with our closest friends and family.

With the pandemic gradually ending, it was time for a new adventure. In 2021, we embarked on a new chapter of our journey by deciding to make Los Angeles our home -- this time together. This new adventure wasn't without its challenges, but it was also a testament to our unwavering commitment to one another. Our little apartment became a sanctuary where we eagerly embraced the opportunity to build a space filled with love, laughter, and our beautiful yellow lab, Molly! We were both sure, without a doubt, that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together.

The proposal came while on vacation on the island of Kaua'i in Hawaii with Sarah's family. Against the backdrop of the island's lush greenery and the beautiful sound of the ocean with "Brown Eyed Girl" playing on a ukulele in the background, James got down on one knee. With tears of joy, Sarah said yes to her best friend and the love of her life. Our love had come full circle, culminating in a proposal that was the single best day of our lives.

Our story, born from the serendipity of a blind double date, tested through the trials of long distance, and strengthened during a global pandemic, now finds its place in our beautiful new home in Los Angeles, ready to build a future filled with endless love and memories. As we look ahead to our future, we are filled with gratitude for the past that brought us together and excitement for all the adventures that await us.

We can't wait to celebrate and continue sharing our love story with you at our wedding! Your presence will make our day even more special as we embark on this next chapter!

Registry