It all started with a text message- March 19, 2015 to be exact! So romantic right?! The short of it is this: Ebony sent the text, Charlyne responded, Richard didn't, Charlyne responds a week later and accuses Richard of being rude, Richard apologizes, and so the story began...
Communication was limited to text messages/phone calls since Charlyne was in grad school in California and Richard was living in Virginia. A trip to Virginia allowed for our first "we're just friends date" - dinner and ice cream in Old Town Alexandria - June 9, 2015.
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder. In this case, it really just allowed a sincere friendship to manifest, develop and grow. No expectations... just friends.
Charlyne's big move to Virginia occurred in April 2017, driving cross-country from Cali to Alexandria. Rich's memorable prayer at Charlyne's housewarming left a lasting mark; one that Charlyne couldn't forget...it was EPIC! A phone call with Richard’s best friends, Simone and De’Juan, prompted him to recognize what had been in front of him all along. After that, Richard just couldn't stay away. LOL! With distance no longer an obstacle, his chivalry and charm captivated Charlyne's attention...the rest is history!
Charlyne invited Richard as a plus one for an upcoming wedding that summer. That wedding changed everything! Having a solid friendship to begin with made dating relatively easy. The mutual respect and adoration for each other was already there so we immediately started to do what we both love to do...travel...and attend weddings! We've been to soo many weddings together, LOL!
Invidiually we love to travel and find value in the experience travel affords. It only made sense that together, our love for travel would continue to be integral to our lives and relationship. We look forward to seeing so much more of this crazy, beautiful world. Seven countries...over 10 states...multiple cities....the memories are countless!
Richard planned the most incredible proposal. However, being an urban planner one would expect nothing less. As with everything Richard does, the proposal was thoughtful, methodical, and executed with love! In short, Charlyne was completely surprised and overtaken with emotion! She said YES!!
Regardless of the circumstance or situation, we will choose each other NEVERTHELESS, loving one another UNCONDITIONALLY, trusting in God ALWAYS and committing to our vows FOREVER!
We are so excited to be embarking in this next chapter of our lives together. Our sincerest gratitude to our family and friends for their continued love and support!
The Lawrence Love Story has barely begun...stay tuned!
Love,
Charlyne & Richard