On January 20th, 2024, Thibault had our first date at a cute little cafe in Addison, Texas. I was worried I would be late, given that I was expecting a busy day at work, so I kept my things in the car. I, of course, did need to push the date to a later time. Once out of work, I rushed to get ready, drive there, and put on my warmest puffer jacket. I was just about to head inside when I realized that I couldn't unzip my jacket! I spent several minutes sweating in my car and tugging frantically at this zipper. I SO did not want to struggle to take it off at the dinner table! After a 15-20 minute battle, I decided I was just going to have to have the hottest date of my life. I came in, apologized for my tardiness, greeted him warmly immediately asked "can you help me? I'm stuck" Thibault was so sweet and patient and we stood there uncomfortable for a few moments while he freed me. It was the best ice breaker for us because everything after that was easy. We sat at this place for hours talking about culture, travel, languages, and our purpose in life. He was so quick with decisions like flipping a coin or picking a hand to decide where else we'd go that night. I was sure then that this was someone I wanted to know. It was a relief how smoothly things went. He walked me to my car at the end of the night, and after our hug, I decided to go for a kiss on the cheek (as one does with a French man). But in a moment of uncertainty, he leaned in and I happily seized the moment and gave him a proper kiss. I cannot think of a better last first kiss with someone.

Ever since then, we have been inseparable. Falling in love, trying new things, meeting our families, traveling, learning from each other and moving in together.

On February 23, 2025, Thibault proposed. Saying yes was easy and shortly after we officially married in America, but now we have a wedding to plan and a chance to unite our two worlds. We cannot wait to celebrate our love with all of you in the French countryside!