The couple met in college and dated for three years before getting engaged. In April 2016 the pair took a trip to Las Vegas with Stephen’s parents. When they arrived at the Paris Casino, Stephen wanted to go up the Eiffel Tower to see the view. While looking out at the bright lights and beautiful scenery, he got down on one knee and proposed. The ceremony was held outside at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. The couple wrote their own vows, during which Stephen pulled out a dollar bill folded into the shape of a heart Sheila had given him during the first week they started dating. He had kept it in his wallet since and presented one for her so she could carry his heart with her always. The reception featured a surprise guest—Rosemary, the woman who flew Sheila over from Vietnam and hand delivered her to her mother in the United States. Rosemary also helped in the adoptions of Sheila’s brother and matron of honor. Everyone cried tears of joy since they hadn’t seen her in more than 16 years. The couple lives in Thomasville, North Carolina.

Photograph by Sommer Ortiz of young photography