Mercedez and Cristian began dating at 12 years old in seventh grade. They spent middle school creating memories together and continued dating into freshman year of high school. When they attended different schools, life took them in separate directions. Little did they know, God would one day lead them back to each other.

Years later, during Mercedez's freshman year of college, Cristian and his best friend, Miguel, randomly stopped by one night to say hi. What seemed like an ordinary visit became the beginning of a whole new chapter. One date turned into endless adventures, and two kids once in love found each other again.

Their twenties became a season of growing, learning, and building a life together. From mountain adventures and hiking trails to beach days, road trips, and finding new places, every experience brought them closer together. Through school, work, and building their futures, they learned what it meant to truly support one another. They became best friends, each other's safe place, and a team ready to take on whatever life brought their way.

On November 1, 2025, Cristian asked Mercedez to marry him in the mountains of Oak Glen, a place that has been special to her since childhood. In a quiet and meaningful moment surrounded by nature, he got down on one knee and asked the question that would change their lives. She said yes. From two middle schoolers in love to two adults choosing forever.

October 10, 2026 marks the start of a lifetime of adventures together. Thank you for celebrating with us, praying for us, and supporting us as we start forever together.