Zoila: “Jordan was the most patient and kind guy I ever dated.”

Zoila and Jordan

May 23, 2015

Jordan and I met at church. For our first date, we went to Panera for lunch right after church. At the time, I didn’t know it was a date! I’m not really sure if there was a specific moment I knew he was “the one.” I would say within 3 – 6 months into dating I knew Jordan was the most patient and kind guy I ever dated. The way he treated me was very caring and gentle. I needed that and I felt safe. That’s how I knew he was “the one.”

We got engaged on May 17, 2014. We had plans to go to downtown Chicago to walk around Buckingham Fountain with another couple. Little did I know, Jordan had an elaborate engagement planned for me and my family. I had an inkling that it was possibly going to happen!

As we were walking around downtown, I asked Jordan, “what’s one thing you love about me?” This led him into his “speech” or declaration of love for me. After the speech, he proposed! Of course, I said, “yes!” and asked if my parents knew. He said that they did know. I was so happy, and I was over the moon that our friends had taken pictures of the engagement on their phones. 🙂

Then, we went into a restaurant where we had dinner reservations. The hostess walked us upstairs and into this beautiful room. I was the first one to walk into the room when both sides of our family yelled out, “surprise!” I burst out crying. I could not believe Jordan got both of our families together like this. On top of all of that, Jordan bought me flowers, which is what I wanted for my perfect engagement.

Jordan and I got married at White Pines Golf Club in Bensenville. We liked it because we liked the outside ceremony and the banquet hall.

The best part of planning a wedding is the excitement of bringing to life your dream wedding. I wanted the day to feel romantic. I also went with a theme of different shades of purple with white and silver as accents. When your vision comes together and you get to share it with all your loved ones, it’s a magical moment. I think the most difficult part of planning a wedding is making the guest list and trying to please people.

Our wedding song was “Everything” by Lifehouse.

The advice I would give to brides is to focus on the engagement period to strengthen your relationship more and make a point to go to pre-marital counseling. Also, always seek advice from older couples you look up to that can lead you down the right path. Always keep in mind that yes, it’s fun and exciting to plan a wedding. But, a wedding is only ONE day whereas your marriage is something you vow to nurture the rest of your life.