People often fall in love in mysterious and unsuspecting ways; Kalif and Khali are no different. It was early summer when Kalif and Khali first met through mutual friends at a going-away happy hour at Barcelona Wine Bar in Washington, DC. Khali immediately caught Kalif's eye in her blue dress and with her beautiful smile. After they were officially introduced, Kalif asked their mutual friends to set up another group outing. During the outing, Khali and Kalif instantly connected, and shortly after, Kalif asked Khali if she wanted to get dinner. They went on their first date at El Centro in Georgetown. Kalif was a little nervous and running behind on the day of the date. Still, Khali was kind and patient and didn't judge; characteristics of Khali that Kalif admires today.

Khali and Kalif had a great first date. They started seeing each other frequently and quickly became inseparable. Fast forward, in the midst the of a global pandemic, Khali and Kalif were beginning to fall in love. Amidst toilet paper shortages, apocalyptic-style Whole Foods and Trader Joe store runs, constant news watching, Khali and Kalif grew closer. They found solace, humor, encouragement, and strength within each other. During one of the most turbulent times of their lives, Khali and Kalif made countless memories. They decided to give each other a shot at taking things to the next level. Four years later, Khali and Kalif are deeply in love and more excited than ever about the future.

Kalif’s career in the Foreign Service has taken him abroad for much of their relationship, giving them a treasure trove of international escapades. From riding four-wheelers in the tropics of beautiful Maceió, Brazil, to waterfront hotel stays in the fantastic beach town of Buzios in Rio de Janeiro, to breathtaking views and romantic adventures mixed with gourmet foods in the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, Khali and Kalif have truly lived the life of international lovers.

Although routinely apart, Khali and Kalif have always found time to see one another around the holidays. Kalif decided to make this last 2023 holiday season one of the most memorable moments of their lives. Kalif bought Khali's ring 6 months before the proposal date, right before he started his next assignment. He knew she was the one and wanted to plan everything as best he could. On December 24, 2023, leaning into Khali's love of flowers, Kalif proposed at Atlanta's Botanical Garden on her special Christmas Eve birthday. Khali said yes! Her acceptance filled Kalif's heart with joy and warmth he had not known until that moment.

Kalif and Khali are beyond thrilled about this next chapter. They can't wait to celebrate with you at their wedding ceremony and reception on August 31, 2025.