The Proposal

Jennifer and Jay’s love story began years before in Maple Valley, Washington. As fate would have it, they had attended the same high school, though Jennifer didn’t find that out until later. “I knew him through a friend and when we got to connect, it really felt like he would be my forever person.”

Over time, their bond grew deeper, and they decided to take things a step further. For Jennifer and Jay, their engagement was a moment filled with love and the comforting presence of those they hold dear.

It all happened at Sand Island, in Oahu, Hawaii, a place that had long been special to them. “It’s our favorite, sentimental beach,” she shared. They had been together for nearly ten years, but when the moment finally arrived, it still caught her off guard. “My engagement was a COMPLETE SURPRISE!” Jennifer says. “He made sure I knew we were shopping around and that it would ‘happen soon,’ but when it actually happened, I really had no idea!”

A Moment Beyond Words

She had been under the impression that they were simply taking family photos, which was a tradition they upheld whenever Jay’s sister visited. “When we showed up, his mom and brother were already there, which I thought was odd… but as soon as we walked farther down the path and saw his childhood best friend, I knew something big was about to happen.”

And the moment she said “yes”? “I was excited, nervous, I had so many emotions but I remember this thought running through my brain, "I GET TO MARRY MY BEST FRIEND!"”

It was a deeply personal and emotional experience. Sand Island wasn’t just their favorite beach; it was where they had spread Jay’s father’s ashes. “After our engagement, the clouds became a darker shade of gray, and it actually started to rain,” she recalled. “For TJ and me, that was confirmation that his father was overwatching us and celebrating our newest chapter. It was such a special moment.”

Life After "I Do"

Throughout their decade together, their bond only grew stronger. “Being engaged for a little over a year now, I feel like we both have a deeper sense of commitment along with excitement,” she said. “Our engagement also reminds us just how strong our connection and bond with each other is, and it’s a daily reminder of just how committed we are to each other.”

Love in Three Words

“Unforgettable, compassionate, and serendipitous.” These words perfectly describe their love, according to Jennifer. “When I think about my fiancé, I think of happiness, compassion, and empathy; all the things I had been looking for. Throughout the 10 years of knowing my (now) fiance, he has shown time and time again that no matter what happens in life, there is another day to be lived, there are more memories and money to be made, and we’ve got to make the most out of this one life that we were given the opportunity to have.”

A Message for Future Brides & Grooms

Looking forward to their wedding and the lifetime ahead, she reflected on their journey with nothing but gratitude. “I love my fiancé more than I would ever be able to explain. Knowing that we have chosen each other, to stand beside one another for life, is such a special feeling. I always knew he would be my husband one day, and I am glad to say we made our decision with my Eternate rings. Mahalo nui!” From that, we’re reminded that love is all about choosing each other, every day, in big and small ways. 

Thank you for letting us be a part of this beautiful journey together.