On 08/24/2019 we matched on Dil Mil (matchmaking app for South Asians) and little did we know our lives would change forever. Since we both were Jains, our first conversation was about celebrating Das Lakshan/Paryushan, which then continued into the practices of Jainism that we value and follow. We knew our connection was instantaneous and from the moment we started chatting, it felt like we have known each other for a lifetime. Our late-night conversations turned into daily routines, and within few weeks, our text messages had evolved into heartfelt confessions. On 09/22/2019, without having met each other in person we both said “I love you”. We knew on that day we could make long distance work from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA!
On 11/01/2019 we finally met in person in San Jose, CA. The first place we went was Santana Row, where we had our first meal together at Veggie Grill. We had the Vegan Southwestern Nacho Tacos and the Vegan Buffalo Wraps! We turned our first date into a tour of the top Silicon Valley companies where we visited Intel, Apple, Google and finally Facebook! As the day came to and end, we sat on a bench at Android Park in Google. We were sharing laughter, secrets and countless memories and on the very same very bench we had a very memorable moment!
On 12/28/19 we did our first road trip to Vegas, NV! We were not public at that time so we took this amazing adventure in secret from our families! For 9 hours straight, Kopal drove to Vegas (since Pratik did not have license at that time). We stayed at Westgate Resort and we gambled at 20 casinos to get a $5 chip (and lost a total of $600), ate 28 dishes and went to 17 events. Some of the events included riding roller coasters on top of The Strat, riding the gondola ride at the Venetian, going to the observation deck on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, riding the High Roller Wheel at LINQ, dancing at Club OMNIA in Caesar Palace, watching Matt Franco Magic Show at LINQ and finally ice skating on the top deck of Cosmopolitan! We celebrated our first New Years Eve together on this trip by eating at Nobu and we continued the sushi tradition moving forward - this trip is still ranked the number one trip for us!
During the pandemic time there were 3 big moves that were made:
On 03/17/2021, the first big move was at the start of the pandemic. Since both of us were working from home and Kopal lived alone, Pratik decided to fly to California and live with Kopal in a 600 square foot apartment 24/7 for more than 3 months straight. During this time, we made a pact to minimize unnecessary risks by avoiding eating out and opting for homemade meals. Every grocery item was meticulously sanitized, and surfaces were disinfected regularly. When we ventured outside for essential tasks, a strict routine was followed – masks, social distancing, and upon return, a thorough shower for everyone. Our shared dedication to these precautions not only ensured our physical well-being but also strengthened our sense of unity as we navigated these challenging times together. From this experience we knew we could live together!
On 10/28/2021, Pratik officially moved to California from Seattle! He moved into an apartment which was 10 minutes walking distance from where Kopal lived! Our long distance relationship was finally no longer long distance. We could now savor the simple joys of everyday life, like cooking dinner together, watching our favorite shows on the couch, and sharing daily stories face-to-face. Weekend getaways and spontaneous outings have become a regular part of our lives, allowing us to explore new places and create lasting memories. The physical presence of each other's friends and family has enriched our social lives, and we could participate in each other's special occasions without the limitations of distance. Most importantly, we've embarked on a journey of deeper emotional connection, building a shared future with the knowledge that we're no longer bound by the constraints of geography.
On 02/01/2022, we finally moved in together in a live-in relationship! Even though this decision challenged traditional, cultural and societal norms in India, we took this step primarily for practical convenience and financial reasons. This decision was a test of our commitment to each other, and we were ready for this milestone based on the strength of our relationship on love, understanding, and the partnership we shared.
On 07/16/2022, WE GOT ENGAGED!
For those who know us well, Kopal is usually the one to opt for cozy nights indoors, sporting her comfy sweatpants, while Pratik is often the instigator of escape room adventures. Pratik cleverly used this knowledge to coax Kopal out of the house for a special surprise. This particular "escape room" was right in the heart of the city, and since neither of us had ever set foot in Golden Gate Park, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore this new place together.
We parked near Stow Lake and, as soon as we stepped out of the car, we couldn't resist capturing the natural beauty surrounding us through photographs. While we wandered through the park, Pratik would intermittently pull Kopal close, sharing how lucky he felt. Normally, Pratik would be cracking jokes and teasing Kopal endlessly, but on this particular day, he was unusually sweet. Kopal's "sus radar" was definitely activated, but she chose to savor the beautiful day and relish the quality time spent with Pratik as they continued their park adventure.
As they turned a corner near Huntington Falls, Kopal spotted the unmistakable "Marry Me" letters, and without hesitation, she blurted out, "Is that for me?" (Imagine the awkwardness if it wasn't!). Thankfully, Pratik giggled and nodded in agreement. All Kopal could do was scream with excitement, repeating, "OMG, is this really happening?" and shouting "yes, yes, yes!" multiple times. Pratik then presented her with a teddy bear holding a message that read, "Kopal, will you marry me?" Her response was an enthusiastic yes, multiple times over. Pratik grinned happily and teased, "Wait for me to actually propose!" In just a matter of seconds, he knelt down, delivered the most endearing and heartfelt speech, and, as you can guess... #isaidyes
On 11/05/2022, we moved in our condo! We now officially joined the homeowners club in the Bay Area! Buying a condo was a significant step in our relationship, symbolizing our commitment to building a life together. During this process we shared vision for our future home and came up with a list of criteria: new property, heightened condo with amenities, downtown San Jose, CA and infinity windows! Funny enough, the building to the right of us was exactly what we were looking for and we bought the first place we saw! The process brought us closer as we navigated through decisions about location, amenities, and financial planning. Now, with our condo keys in hand, we eagerly anticipate creating a warm and loving space where we can start our married life together.
On 01/27/2023, our roka took place (after our western engagement!) Our roka ceremony served as a beautiful starting point for the unity of our two families. The atmosphere was filled with a spirit of unity and celebration. We got coconuts, gold, money, clothes, sweets and most importantly blessings! The traditional rituals and heartfelt exchanges of blessings between our elders symbolized the merging of our families' love, traditions and values. This day created a strong foundation for our journey ahead as one united family.
Here are the places we have traveled together in order:
* San Jose, California
* Seattle, Washington
* Las Vegas, Nevada
* San Francisco, California
* Los Angeles, California
* San Diego, California
* Maui, Hawaii
* Boston, Massachusetts
* Providence, Rhode Island
* Niagara Falls, New York
* Phoenix, Arizona
* Albuquerque, New Mexico
* Dallas, Texas
* Mumbai, India
* Udaipur, India
On 11/29/2023, we will be finally married! We are truly honored to have your blessings and presence on this special day. Your presence adds joy and meaning to our celebration. We can't wait to share this beautiful day with you and create wonderful memories together. Thank you for being a part of our journey and we cannot wait to see you soon!