Neelam and John first crossed paths during one of Neelam’s evening shifts at Target when John stopped by with a mutual friend. It was a quick introduction, but one that left a lasting impression.

A couple of weeks later, fate brought them together again at a friend’s game night. Around the dining table Neelam was confidently conquering the map in a heated round of Risk. John arrived late, and Neelam—ever the gracious strategist—offered him a seat and suggested they team up. John joined as her “advisor” and, within two turns, his questionable tactics cost her the game. Losing the map was just the beginning—they spent the rest of the evening deep in conversation.

From there their connection grew naturally. What started with online conversations soon turned into museum visits, concerts, late-night drives for vegan treats, cozy coffee-shop stops, plates of dumplings, and countless meals at Spiral Diner. Together they built a rhythm of simple joys and shared adventures.

During the quiet days of Covid their routine took on an even sweeter meaning. Neelam would come straight from work at the museum, dressed up from her day, and John would swap into a nice shirt just so they could walk across the street together for groceries. They’d pick up ingredients, cook dinner, and share stories from their day—moments that gave them a glimpse of what married life would feel like.

There was never a single “official” beginning; instead their relationship blossomed gradually, grounded in friendship as much as love. Over a decade later they’ve built a life filled with laughter, creativity, and companionship—along with their beloved pets, Neelam’s cat Mellon and John’s chihuahua Jelebi (Jelly).

On December 9, 2024 Neelam and John were officially married. Now, a year later, they are overjoyed to celebrate their marriage with family and friends—the people who have been part of their story all along.