The beginning of something beautiful...
Life has a funny way of bringing people together. While we met through a dating app, we often wonder if we would have crossed paths eventually anyway - we discovered we had so many mutual connections and shared experiences. We're grateful to found love through modern technology, beginning with an instant connection that grew into something beautiful.
It all started on Hinge, where Kelsey's profile caught Chris's attention with her desire to find someone who loves Jesus. His message was simple: "A nurse that loves Jesus. I'm for it. 👍👍 How's your Sunday going?"
They quickly discovered they both had Young Life in common, just one of many threads weaving their lives together.
Their first date in October was everything it should be - tacos, laughter, and meaningful conversations about faith, family, and life. Their second date almost didn't happen when Chris arrived thirty minutes late after driving to the wrong location and attempting to escape a Bible study mid-prayer. But Kelsey sat patiently waiting at the bar, and they stayed together until midnight - Chris's birthday. It was then, in that first birthday hug, that Kelsey felt herself falling in love.
After countless dates, hikes, and FaceTime calls, Kelsey was ready while Chris, true to his thoughtful nature, took more time to process his feelings. Until finally, they made it official in March. Over the next two and a half years, they grew to know each other deeply, meeting families and doing life together through both the mundane and the magical. Through inside jokes and tears of growth, they developed a love that was both fun and meaningful.
They navigated life's challenges together through deep conversations and prayer. After much thought, Chris asked Kelsey's parents for their blessing in December.
On December 15th, Chris orchestrated the perfect surprise proposal. Convincing Kelsey she was helping with family photos for his brother at the Gilbert Riparian, he dressed casually to keep up the ruse.
After taking photos, Chris excused himself to go to the restroom, as he often did, but this time, he was changing into something more fitting. When the violinist began playing one of Kelsey's favorite songs, Chris took her hand and swept her away to an embankment at sunset.
There, he proposed and told her he loved her for the very first time. Kelsey was so shocked she couldn't respond at first, but when she found her voice, she said "I love you too" and "yes, of course!" After celebrating with friends and family, they began planning their big day.
As they step into marriage, Kelsey and Chris are excited about the growth and meaning they'll cultivate together, with Jesus as their guide. Their love story, which began with a simple message on a dating app, has blossomed into a garden rooted in faith, friendship, and a shared vision for the future.
