We first met in 2008 when we volunteered at the Hindu Temple Youth Camp in Columbus, OH. Over the year, we met a few times but really got to know each other in 2009 when we started at THE Ohio State University (O-H!). We discovered our football tickets were in the same section and attended games together.
In 2011, Vidhee transferred to Marshall University (Go Herd!) which began our long-distance relationship. From then on, we both started our careers and first jobs together, supporting each other from a distance.
In 2017, we unfortunately lost Vidhee’s father, Jayantilal, to Stage 4 cancer suddenly. This was a devastating loss for both families. He had the chance to bond with Harsh (especially over cricket) and had given his blessings for our relationship. He will be missed during this time, but he is in our hearts and we can imagine him smiling and enjoying the wedding.
The last few years we travelled and enjoyed spending more time together. We have almost 11+ years of memories and excited to build on that.
We were to wed on July 4th, 2020; we visited India for wedding shopping, expected to return in March. At this time, the COVID pandemic spread significantly around the world and everything was shut down. We were stuck in India for almost 6 months (Many people were convinced we had moved there permanently!). Thankfully, we were able to spend time with Harsh's grandparents and extend family as well as Vidhee's extended family, which was invaluable.
We returned in August and decided we wanted to get married, and not wait any longer. We wish everyone could be part of our celebrations, but we hope you send us your blessings.
Soon after the wedding, we are planning to move to Chicago as Harsh pursues his MBA at University of Chicago – Booth.
On November 11th, for our 10-year anniversary, Harsh made plans to surprise me but ‘left for a work emergency’. Harsh later called asking to meet for lunch and sent an address.
When I arrived, I noticed the location was not a restaurant. I walked in hesitantly to ask if this was the correct address and was surprised to see Harsh waiting. He told me that we would be cooking a 4-course private meal.
Harsh prepared roasted peppers crostini for appetizers while I made chocolate mousse for dessert. Together we made mushroom ragu with polenta and pad thai.
Little did I know, Harsh had one more surprise for me…
He set up pictures, one for each year of our relationship. We progressed through them and reminisced of our journey together. The 11th picture was blank and Harsh said ‘this signifies the many more memories we will continue to make.’ In that moment, Harsh got on his knee and asked me to marry him.
