Our Story
Marie and Jesse's tale began in the most unexpected of places. They first crossed paths online, mere children exploring the internet's vast expanse in the early 2000s. Jesse, a 12-year-old in England, and Marie, a 10-year-old in Puerto Rico, soon found a deep connection, spending countless hours chatting on MSN. Despite the miles and the time difference, their bond grew strong and unwavering. Friends of Jesse would often jest, "I'm your best friend, well, after Marie," acknowledging a friendship that transcended distance and time.
By 2012, their bond had blossomed into something more. After playful banter during Portal 2 co-op sessions, Marie revealed her feelings, and their friendship gracefully transformed into romance. In 2013, Jesse made the journey to Puerto Rico, where their virtual love found its real-world counterpart. The magic continued when Marie visited the UK in 2014, and by 2015, they had created a shared home in Plymouth.
Their life together has been a tapestry of shared adventures and achievements. They welcomed a mischievous kitten named Paz into their home, whose antics brought endless joy. Together, they created Patches, a pre-bereavement program for children, earning national recognition and even a spot on TV. Their artistic collaboration saw them painting a giant ram sculpture for a Derby trail, and their wanderlust led them to Paris.
A childhood promise led them to Disneyland in early 2020, where Jesse proposed, fulfilling a dream they had cherished for years. It was a moment crafted with love and surprise, made all the more memorable by the hurdles they overcame, including a race to intercept the engagement ring package.
Their journey has not been without trials. Long-distance visits, sold belongings to fund flights, and navigating visa restrictions tested their resolve. Yet, through every challenge, their love deepened and their bond strengthened. They have grown together, nurturing each other's dreams and ambitions.
As they look to the future, excitement fills their hearts. Marie is pursuing her passion for AI with an internship at Microsoft, while Jesse balances a career in freelance independent films with his work as a designer. They dream of welcoming their first child a few years after their wedding, ready to embrace the next chapter of their journey.
Marie and Jesse's love story is one of resilience, commitment, and an enduring friendship that began in childhood. Their journey has been marked by perseverance and unwavering love, overcoming obstacles that only fortified their bond. They are profoundly grateful for every step that has led them here and eagerly anticipate celebrating their love with those dearest to them.