"I didn't choose you. I just took one look at you and then -- there was just no turning back." This magical love story all happened the summer of 2015 in Chicago. Stephanie's good friend Maggie had invited her to go to the Mumford & Sons concert. The show was originally scheduled for Wednesday and it was planned to be held rain or shine, but with the heavy rain and storms coming in they rescheduled the show last minute for the following Friday. This actually turned out perfectly because Stephanie was out of town that Wednesday and wouldn't have been able to go to the concert if it wasn't rescheduled. Maggie and Stephanie went to Montrose Beach together for the show and Maggie had told Stephanie that she was meeting up with some of her girlfriends. Well, Maggie's girlfriends turned out to be Josh's sisters! As soon as they made their way up as close as they could possible get to the stage, Maggie shouted to Stephanie that she found her friends. Stephanie made her way over to everyone and met Maggie's sweet friends. She then turned around and guess who was standing/dancing directly behind her? ... JOSH!!

After a few songs, laughs, and chatting a bit in between songs, Josh asked Stephanie, "So where's your boyfriend?" Stephanie responded, "I don't have one, where's your girlfriend?" Josh responded, "I don't have one!" They then were hand in hand twirling and dancing around with huge smiles cheek to cheek! Literally from this moment on, Josh and Stephanie felt a connection that was too strong to ignore. With Stephanie's plans to move closer to her family in Florida set to happen in just two months from then, Stephanie wasn't looking to meet/date anyone at that time. She shared with Josh that evening that she was going to be moving, but with their natural connection they both seemed to put that aside and simply live in the moment.

Each day and evening after the night Josh and Stephanie had met they planned dates cooking out, running together, taking Stephanie's puppy to the beach, staying up late into the night playing their guitars (Josh taught Steph how to play), laughing and getting to know one another better and better each day. It truly was an immediate and natural connection, as some like to call it, "LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT." They went to music festivals, spent time with their friends and Josh's sisters and family. Within just a couple months they had both met one another's parents. With Stephanie's Mom and Dad in town to help her move, both of their parents were even able to meet each other at Stephanie's going away party. The universe showed its true magic for these two love birds and it only continues to shine in their life day after day!.

Stephanie moved to Sarasota, FL in mid-August of 2015 and Josh traveled back and forth for several months working both in Sarasota and Chicago. He officially packed up in Chicago and drove to move permanently to Florida in March 2016. In January of 2016, Josh and Stephanie started a small business called Jinju Products. They continue to inspire one another and come up with new furnishings and decor to create with their wine and whiskey barrels. From barrel bar stools to serving trays and more, they enjoy working together in their workshop! You can see their products by visiting www.jinjupearl.etsy.com and also at www.jinjuproduct.com

THE BEST DAY EVER ALL STARTED...
On December 18th, Josh and Stephanie drove up north to spend the morning with Josh's Dad and Susan for a Christmas brunch in Tampa. On their way home they talked about going to see the sunset since they weren't able to make it the night before. They stopped at home quickly to change, pack up their cooler and grab their beach chairs. After the sun had set Josh said that they should get a picture as they always like to do when they're able to make it for the sunset. Stephanie then asked who they should ask to take the picture and Josh said, "I'll ask that man and his wife that are packing up." So Stephanie continued to walk towards the ocean and Josh went to ask the man.

Little did Stephanie know but when Josh went to ask the man he quickly and quietly asked him, "Do you mind taking a picture of us? I am going to propose so if you could please take as many pictures as possible that'd be great!!" Josh then walked to join Stephanie and he held both of her hands and told her that he loved her and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. He got down on one knee and asked Stephanie to marry him. SHE SAID YES!! From that moment on, they have become the soon-to-be Mr. & Mrs. Sands!

The couple that took their pictures have been married for 47 years! They shared with Stephanie and Josh that it was such a special moment for them and that they were going to cherish that evening forever! A "selfie" of the four of them was requested by the man whom took the photos for Josh which you can see in their photos if you'd like. PURE, SWEET LOVE. The four of them all seemed to agree on the same thing... in order to live a full, happy and free life, one must cherish and appreciate each moment!

*A Special Message from the Bride & Groom To-Be:
We simply can't wait to celebrate our special day with you all, thank you for being such a special part of our lives. Also, thank you for visiting our wedding website and sharing this special time with us.
The countdown has begun!!

Lots & Lots of Love,

Stephanie & Josh
Live life with a blissful mind.
LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE, LOVE THE LIFE YOU LIVE, it's as simple as that. XOXO