A Polish girl invites you camping. An eccentric roommate puts in a good word. You’re not sure where this is going, but you say "yes". Both new to Boston when they met, Hector and Vanessa were eager to experience all the wonderful things the city had to offer. By saying yes to camping, Vanessa didn’t know she would be introduced to someone funny and caring who regularly quotes the Simpsons and would always be by her side. By saying yes to a roommate putting in a good word, Hector didn’t know he would be meeting someone so thoughtful and passionate, whose love for food and ice cream could surpass his own. Between a few first dates, a global pandemic, and a lot of good cooking, Vanessa and Hector quickly realized their connection was something special. This was the person they had always been looking for in a partner. I guess you never know where life will take you until you say yes!

Hector and Vanessa had been dating for a while and always knew each other were the one. Hector would frequently joke with Vanessa that he would propose with a marching band, which always made Vanessa nervous as she was not one for attention. He wanted the proposal to be memorable - something they can proudly share with family and friends. After making the trip to Hong Kong to get her parents' blessing, acquiring the perfect ring, and booking a beautiful French restaurant, Hector was ready to propose. It was a freezing February evening in Boston. The couple were celebrating their 3rd anniversary and Hector felt quite nervous but played it cool. Vanessa was excited and unsuspecting, and the couple enjoyed a wonderful six-course meal overlooking the Boston Common. Just as dessert was about to be served, Hector claimed he needed the "bathroom" and coordinated with the restaurant staff who were ready to assist with the proposal. As dessert arrived, Vanessa noticed one of the waitstaff filming them with Hector's phone. Confused, she turned to Hector as he got down on one knee and proposed. Shocked and elated, Vanessa said yes! Everyone at the restaurant clapped and cheered.

Vanessa and Hector got married at the Hampshire House in Boston on April 20 this year. They were very fortunate to be joined by a group of family and friends from the US, Canada, UK and Hong Kong. Reverend Catie Scudera officiated the wedding, and Vanessa and Hector joined together to light a unity candle, share their vows, and exchange rings to a room full of cheers (and happy tears). There was a lunch reception afterwards where the Maid of Honor, Audrey, the Best Man, Alex, and Father of the Bride, Peter, gave hilarious (with a lot of deep cuts and throwbacks) and heartfelt speeches. Former crushes, freshmen parties were mentioned, as well as a cute story of the bride and groom's mutual love of Italian cannolis - or rather, sharing food! At one point during Peter's speech, he started quoting a World War II bomber plane story that had everyone wondering if the man had had a glass too much, only to have him to knock it out of the park with a darkly memorable message that no matter what happens in life, never abandon your co-pilot. After lunch, Vanessa and Hector took to the dance floor for their first dance, spinning gracefully to Ingrid Michaelson's The Way I Am, followed by a father and daughter dance to Frank Sinatra's The Way You Look Tonight. Peter missed the initial intro, tried to insist that he was on cue as Vanessa patiently continued to guide Peter as he finally caught up - much to the delight, laughter, and entertainment of all guests. Afterwards, Vanessa and Hector gave their thank you speeches, and it was somehow followed by Hector being lifted up on a chair by fellow family and friends who are always up to some kind of pranks and shenanigans. Vanessa later tossed her bouquet to an eager group of single ladies, and it was caught by a fellow and beloved co-worker of Vanessa's. Everyone took to the dance floor next and brought their best moves (there was a conga line at one point) and belted out to pop tunes such as Dancing Queen, Thrift Store, and - yes, you already know it - Don't Stop Believing. It was all in all a very merry affair, and everyone had a wonderful time. Vanessa and Hector are excited about Part II in Hong Kong and cannot wait to celebrate with you!