Brian and Ushas

In this photo, they were young, a little shy, and completely smitten. From strolls through the city to late-night laughs and deep talks, those first few days were filled with magic. Before there was love, there was friendship. Ushas and Brian were best friends first. It didn’t take long for them to realize they had found something rare. That visit turned into countless more. And what began as a simple photo became a memory of the moment their love story truly began.

In 2019, Ushas made the big move to Chicago for the summer — and it turned out to be one of the best decisions ever. That summer was filled with so much fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Ushas quickly fell in love with the city. It was a summer full of laughter, love, and the kind of moments that stay with you forever. A season where everything just felt right — the city, the people, and most of all, each other.

2020 started off like any other year. Ushas and Brian made plans for her first (and only!) iconic St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Chicago. But just days later, the world shut down. That celebration would be the last time they saw each other in person for the next five months. Quarantine was hard, but it also showed how strong their bond really was. Through FaceTimes, phone calls, and endless texts, their connection only grew stronger — proving that love can thrive even at a distance.

Brian met Ushas’ family for the first time over dinner at home — a tradition that started that night and still continues every time he’s in town. Fun fact: Brian, Ushas’ mom, and her brother-in-law all share birthdays just a few days apart!

This photo is from their very first trip across the country together — exploring Colorado and making memories that would last a lifetime. Brian and Ushas took their first real hike (trail mix in hand, because what else do you snack on?), and a visit to the church they watched online every Sunday during quarantine.

In 2021, Ushas met Brian’s family for the first time over dinner at Seasons 52 in Schaumburg. She was definitely nervous walking in — it was a big moment! But as soon as they all sat down and started talking, the nerves faded. Everything felt so natural, so easy, like she had known them for years. It was the beginning of something really special — not just with Brian, but with the amazing people who love him too.

In 2022, Brian made a big move to North Carolina for work — something no one ever expected from this Chi-town born guy. Leaving his hometown was a major change, but it turned out to be such a special one. At first, not knowing many people felt strange, but it also brought a kind of peace Brian and Ushas didn’t know they needed. And of course, Brian quickly became good friends with his colleagues, making a new place feel a little more like home.

Ushas and Brian were able to celebrate Ammachi’s 85th birthday — such a special day for so many reasons. For Ushas, it was especially meaningful since she lost her own grandparents when she was young, and she feels a deep connection to Ammachi. It was also a joy getting to meet so much of Brian’s extended family. A day full of love and memories we’ll always cherish.

2023 – the year the parents met for the first time in person, without Ushas present. It all came together last minute, without much planning, but it ended up meaning so much. Both Ushas and Brian knew this was the first step in moving forward into the next chapter of our marriage – bringing our families closer together. A quiet but meaningful beginning.

Brian and Ushas had their Pennu Kaanal in 2024 — a traditional meeting where the groom's family formally meets the bride for the first time. Like many Malayalee girls, it was something Ushas had always imagined. It went better than they ever expected and was the perfect way to start such a special year.

The proposal in Thailand — Brian kept the entire trip a complete secret from Ushas. Ushas didn’t even want to pick her own ring, just to keep the tradition of a true surprise. As a wedding planner, letting go is hard for Ushas, but Brian planned every detail so perfectly. The proposal itself was truly special, with serene views and unforgettable vibes. A memory that will last a lifetime.

The Orapeer — a tradition to formally announce the wedding date. By this point, everything felt official, and this moment made it all the more real. It was also another beautiful opportunity for more of Ushas and Brian's families to meet, connect, and be part of the journey with them.

The Indian Engagement and trip to India was truly unforgettable. They got to spend time with family from both sides—loved ones they don’t get to see often but who mean so much to Ushas and Brian. With so many of their relatives spread across the world, they knew a handful wouldn’t be able to make it to the wedding, so they wanted to celebrate with them while they could. What made it even more special was having family and friends from the U.S. fly in to support us and join them the joy. It was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip!