WE'RE GETTING MARRIED!

This site has all the info you need to celebrate with us for the weekend in Los Angeles, California at Terranea ocean front resort in Rancho Palos Verdes.

The sparks fly

Tim's Story

January 2023: It all began on a crisp morning aboard the Norwegian Cruise Ship, JOY. Derrick, eager to continue his journey from Los Angeles to Miami through the Panama Canal, bumped into me while I was heading to the theater, he said, "Excuse me, sir, when is the tender boat arriving?" At that moment, the crowd of people waiting outside suddenly stopped chattering. We felt their eyes and energy on us, and it was as if the world itself had paused when we connected. Derrick saw his reflection in my eyes, and in that moment he knew. We both knew. It felt like sparks were flying between us, electrifying the air.

Though our paths crossed many times in the ship’s coffee shop, we never exchanged words—only smiles. Those silent moments of connection felt like the beginning of something special, even if we didn’t realize it at the time.

One evening, as the sun dipped toward the horizon, Derrick held the door open for me as I was on my way to my cabin. We went on a few dates, in a few different countries. After hosting the solo travelers, I would rush to the top deck to catch the sunset with Derrick, creating endearing moments that hinted at the closeness we would soon share.

Soon after our first encounter, Derrick and I went on a hike for our next date, exploring the scenic trails at Terranea in Palos Verdes, near where the ship was docked. The beauty of nature mirrored the blossoming of our love.

On my birthday, Derrick surprised me by flying to Boston so we could celebrate together on a New England cruise to Canada. It was a gesture that warmed my heart and deepened our connection.

Our first Christmas together was spent in the Bahamas, a magical experience that solidified the bond we were forming. The warm sun, turquoise waters, and festive spirit made it a holiday we would never forget. 

And the rest, as they say, is history.

The Proposal

By Derrick

Proposal to Tim

Planning a surprise proposal for someone who doesn’t like surprises can be tricky. I wanted to do it at a place that was special to me. Tim and I didn’t have much time, so we visited some beautiful spots in LA. I took him to the most amazing place I know, the same spot where I took my "Sexy" Granny when she first came to California to see the Pacific Ocean. It’s where we watched the sunset to honor my mother.

I tried to set up a camera to record the surprise, but the wind kept blowing hard. As his cruise ship was about to board, I got down on one knee and showed him our engagement ring. The words emerged from my mouth: "Tim, will you marry me?" Tim grinned from ear to ear and said, "YES!" We were so happy, and later we celebrated with our family by having a boodle fight.

Now, I know some of you are wondering what a boodle fight is. No, it is not a fight between two "boodles, poodles, or noodles." It is a meal typically served on a long table covered with banana leaves, which function as both plates and serving dishes. The food, ranging from grilled items to rice dishes, is placed in the center of the table without utensils, encouraging diners to eat with their bare hands. It is wonderful. We had the engagement party in the Philippines so we could share the wonderful news with our family.

Norwegian Cruise Line Photography