Anna's introduction to Xander was loud, boisterous, and silly; much like their dynamic as a couple today. When they first met in the fall of 2020, their first year of college, they were both deeply immersed in the college experience, and their social circles were worlds apart from one another. Regardless of her responsibilities, priorities, and the distance between her and Xander, Anna could not ignore the magnetism from their first encounter. Xander came bursting into our dorm room with all his friends in silly matching outfits, showing off and horsing around the room, before stampeding out as quickly as they came in. Soon after, Anna and Xander's friend groups began quietly merging, and their encounters became more frequent. Xander's best friend, Andrew, and I realized right away that something was simmering between the two and knew we had to nudge them in the right direction. Many group chats, FaceTime Calls, and flirtatious comments later, the two finally shared their first milestone. Quietly, coyly, and without undue fanfare, they held hands for the first time. The two slowly began to explore their connection. Studying together, watching movies, hiking, and having conversations about the deepest deep, and the weirdest weird. They had dinners and shared sweet kisses in the rain. Double dates and group outings, their love unfolded much like the light of a candle: bright and warm, elegant yet approachable. Through the years of college, Anna often talked about the way Xander took point, ever the gentleman, on planning dates, opening her doors, and always making her feel safe. The way they laughed and joked, problem-solved and collaborated, it was as if they had known each other for a lifetime already. The synergy of Anna and Xander did not go unnoticed, and their bond to each other was clear as day. Together, their joy was infectious.

 

As we moved closer to graduation and the reality of adult life, Anna and Xander knew what the constant in their futures would be: Each Other. Both of them are excellent planners and communicators, allowing them to ebb and flow around each other as they found their footing in post-grad life. Once again separated by distance and vocational responsibilities, as a friend, I was never worried about the path forward for the two of them. I heard the highs and lows, the first arguments, the major compromises, and the re-institution of goals and timelines. Time spent talking, time spent in silence, I will never forget that through the thick and thin, Anna never stopped wanting to love Xander, and vice versa. Their choice to stay true to their commitment to one another sustains their foundation to this day. 

 

Flash forward to March 11th, 2025, unbeknownst to Anna, Xander had finally gotten the ring. We spent many hours scheming and planning parties, proposals, and celebrations to shower them in. When I asked Xander how he felt, he admitted he was overwhelmed in the best way. He showed me his hiding spot for the ring and ran through plans upon plans for the proposal. Again, he showed an attention to detail and a level of initiative that is unparalleled. Most of all, he showed how much he knew and cared about Anna. As her best friend it was torture keeping all these juicy secrets from her, but it was all worth it to see her face in surprise. It's no secret that Anna is a wedding aficionado through her career in photography and design. So how can we make this part of the wedding special for her? Xander kept it authentic and genuine, tastefully understated, and full of love. Despite their shining and bold personalities, like when they first met, the candle of their love glows softly still. And now we get to prepare to celebrate the fireworks on their wedding day!