In the summer of 2022, we met on a popular dating app designed to find a relationship. At the time, Matt had been on this app, and others, for a few years and had turned off his notifications and committed himself to letting God select his companion. Johari, on the other hand, had recently moved to Northern Virginia and joined the app for the first time. Luckily, she came across Matt’s profile, and thought his answers were thoughtful and funny. The pictures didn’t hurt either!

Fast forward a few days, and Matt decided to open the app for the first time in a few months. The first match to pop up was Jo. He quickly realized she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and couldn’t believe she swiped right. So, he reached out to start a conversation. Texts became long calls, and calls became plans to meet in person.

However, on the evening of their first date, Matt’s oldest brother got into a serious car accident that had Matt driving to the hospital in Maryland to check on him. He called Jo that night to apologize and see if they could reschedule, almost certain that she would think he was blowing her off and would refuse to meet. Instead, she showed her true colors…

A completely understanding, patient, and God fearing woman, offering to pray with him for his brother and assuring him to take all the time he needed with his family. She followed up by calling every night that week to check on him, the brother and family she never met, and to pray with him. Matt knew the Lord had answered the prayer he made all those months ago when he first left the very app that led him to Jo.

Over the years since, we’ve built a relationship rooted in trust, faith, and a shared vision for the future. While life has certainly brought its challenges, we’ve faced them together, growing stronger and more united with every step.

Now, as we take this exciting next step, we’re filled with gratitude for the love and support of our family and friends. We can’t wait to celebrate our special day with all of you, our favorite people, by our side.