To our dearest friends and family,
You are here today because you are part of our story. Each of you has shown us love and support in ways that have carried us individually and as a couple. You have never wavered in your belief in us and our love, standing by our side in moments of joy and challenge. Your presence in our lives has been intentional, just as these invitations are intentional—a reflection of the love, trust, and gratitude we feel for you.
This day is about more than just our union as a couple; it is about the community we’ve built around us—a community that celebrates love in all its forms. For some, this may be your first queer wedding; for others, it may be one of many. Regardless, we want you to know how much you mean to us, and how deeply we appreciate your unwavering support and the joy you bring to our lives.
Today, we invite you to celebrate not just this moment, but the revolutionary love that brought us here, the memories we’ve shared, and the journey we will continue together. And, perhaps most of all, we want you to have fun! Thank you for being here today, and for continuing to celebrate with us every day hereafter..
With all our love,
Preston & Donald
Our love story began in a way some might call unconventional—on Jack’d, a dating app known for connecting Black queer men in ways that other platforms often fall short. In December 2019, Donald was the first to slide into Preston’s DMs, and it didn’t take long for Preston to reply. What followed was an exchange that felt magnetic, an instant connection that neither could ignore.
After a few weeks of talking, sharing laughs, and realizing they had more in common than they could’ve imagined, they decided it was time to meet. Their first date was at Denson Liquor Bar, in downtown Washington, DC, a cozy spot that set the perfect stage for what would become an unforgettable night. In true Preston and Donald fashion, they dove headfirst into the topics people usually avoid on a first date: politics and religion. But the conversation didn’t stop there. They talked about their families, their favorite restaurants, the Netflix shows they were watching, pop culture, what they envisioned for their futures, and their favorite food . . . sushi!
Donald, a proud Southerner with deep roots in tradition, and Preston, a Midwestern activist with a sharp focus on justice, marveled at their differences while finding common ground. They even discussed how Preston’s life as a well-known DC activist might clash with Donald’s less-public corporate finance career. But instead of barriers, their conversation felt electric—a meeting of two lives that just fit.
Of course, love stories aren’t always easy. Though we met before COVID-19 turned the world upside down, the pandemic tested our bond in ways we could never have anticipated. There was loss, uncertainty, and the weight of navigating a new world together. But instead of breaking us, COVID became a crucible for our love. It showed us just how deeply we cared for one another and how committed we were to building a life together. And we couldn’t stop thinking about some of our favorite moments, like spending weeks watching RuPaul’s Drag Race cheering on Jaida Essence Hall or Preston making Donald’s Mama’s famous baked spaghetti.
Now, five years later, this story of two Black queer men continues to unfold. What began as a DM has grown into a love that transcends challenges, embraces differences, and celebrates the beauty of finding your perfect match in an imperfect world.
As we stand here today, surrounded by the love of our family and friends, our story reminds us all of the power of connection, resilience, and a love that defies expectations.
Our engagement story is not just one unforgettable proposal—but two!
In April 2024, we were on a three city trip to Paris, Madrid and Barcelona. As someone who loves to travel and appreciates the finer, more precise details of life, Donald planned an unforgettable evening at Ramón Freixa Madrid, a Michelin two-starred restaurant renowned for its elegance and culinary mastery, except he didn’t know he was planning his own engagement, too!
While enjoying an incredible dinner, surrounded by an ambiance that felt intimate and magical, with photographers hired to also act as patrons, Preston surprised Donald. Near the end of dinner, Preston shared words that were full of love, intention, and promise, and asked if Donald would accept his hand in marriage. In that moment, overwhelmed with emotion and possible confusion of what exactly Preston was asking, Donald said "yes!" to spend the rest of his life with him. This moment was immediately sealed with a kiss and - in true Preston fashion, would later be covered by People and Bravo.
However, our engagement story didn’t end there. In May 2024, Donald decided he wouldn’t be the only one with an engagement ring. It was his turn to propose to Preston, and he knew just the place: Moonraker, one of our favorite restaurants in the Wharf. It was the perfect setting—a stunning view, familiar, and filled with memories we’ve shared over our favorite food: sushi. During the end of brunch, Donald took a deep breath, shared his heart with Preston, and then proposed. Of course Preston said "yes!" again, and we both laughed at how perfectly our dual proposals captured the balance and mutuality of our relationship.
These two proposals weren’t just about asking a question—they were about affirming what we’ve built together: a love grounded in equality, partnership, and shared joy. Each moment reflects who we are as individuals and as a couple. From a Michelin-starred evening in Madrid to a sushi-filled DC day at Moonraker, our story is a testament to the love we share and the life we’re creating together.
And now, with two proposals behind us, we can’t wait for what’s next.