Crystian and Shirley both worked as tutors at the STEM Center at Cal State Channel Islands college campus, where a mutual friend introduced us. The two of us quickly became friends, bonding over our shared interests and experiences. As time went on, our friendship deepened, eventually blossoming into something more.

For our first date, we watched the live-action “Beauty and the Beast” at the movie theater. After the movie, we headed to Lazy Dog for dinner, where we enjoyed delicious food and engaging conversation, making it an unforgettable evening.

On June 8, 2017, we went on a date in Santa Barbara, California. There, Crystian surprised Shirley with a beautiful necklace on the beach at sunset and asked her to be his girlfriend. She said yes!

For our 5 year anniversary, we went to Inn of the Seventh Ray, one of the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles. It was the perfect place to celebrate our love.

Less than a year later, Crystian brought Shirley back to Inn of the Seventh Ray where he planned a beautiful proposal. He popped the question right next to a beautiful creek under twinkling lights. She said yes, of course!