Over three years ago, Thomas and JoAnn matched on a dating app, but not in the way you might expect. Both of them stretched the truth about their locations and ended up matching while supposedly in the DMV area, even though neither was actually there. Because of that, they couldn’t meet right away. Still, their conversations just clicked. Whether texting or talking on the phone, they found themselves connecting over everything and nothing at all.

When Thomas eventually moved to Virginia, he decided it was time to meet JoAnn in person. He booked a bus to New York to take a chance and finally have their first date. What started as a simple meetup turned into an entire weekend together, and everything just felt right. Two weeks later, they saw each other again, and by the end of that weekend, they officially became a couple.

From that point on, they took turns making weekend trips between the DMV and New York, met each other’s families, and eventually settled down in the same city. Whether traveling, cooking dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet evening together, being with one another has always felt natural, steady, and full of joy.

Their relationship has also faced some challenges with long distance. Since September 2023, JoAnn has been working in Shanghai with the U.S. State Department, which meant another long-distance chapter for them. However, despite the miles and time zones, they stayed connected and committed, even getting engaged during this time. Though 7,500 miles apart, they managed to visit each other often. The distance only strengthened their bond and reminded them how much they value every moment together.

Now, Thomas and JoAnn are so excited to begin this next chapter of their lives and to celebrate their wedding day with all of you.