HERS

"We’d been waiting for each other this whole time."

Chris and I go way back to the summer of 2003, when we were just 18, working our very first job. I’ll never forget the first time I saw him—he had these hilariously thick glasses that just screamed "nerd," but in the most endearing way. He always knew how to make me laugh, and for someone as shy as I was, it was a big deal to feel that comfortable around someone. There was just this spark, this sense of happiness with him that I’d never felt with anyone else.

Chris would write me the sweetest poems, dropping hints that he wanted more than friendship. Even though I never took that leap back then, I always knew there was something special about him. Life happened, and we ended up drifting apart, losing touch for about five years.

But he was always on my mind. I’d find myself wondering, what if? What if we ever crossed paths again? What would I say? Would it be too late? Had he already found someone else? By 2009, instead of wondering, I decided to find out. So, I did what anyone would do—I Facebook stalked him. Haha! We started chatting, and it was like nothing had ever changed.

I’d sit there, trying to play it cool, typing away with the biggest smile on my face, heart racing just like it used to. All those warm, fuzzy feelings came rushing back, and I knew… we’d been waiting for each other this whole time.

HIS

"What's meant to be will always find its way."

I first met Sarom while we were both working at Yoshinoya Beef Bowl. We were just co-workers at first, but it didn’t take long for us to become friends. I knew right away that I liked her—she had such a kind heart and always made me smile. Working together felt effortless, and the time just flew by when she was around.

As we started hanging out outside of work, I realized my feelings for her were growing. I tried all sorts of ways to let her know how I felt, even writing her a poem that somehow tied my love for sports into how much I liked her. But, at that time, it just wasn’t meant to be, and as life took us in different directions, our friendship faded along with those feelings.

Even though we drifted apart, I often found myself wondering if I should’ve done things differently. Should I have tried harder to stay in touch? After a few years and a trip halfway around the world, fate stepped in, and we reconnected. We spent hours reminiscing about the old days, laughing over memories we shared, and slowly, I began to realize—those feelings I thought had faded? They never really went away.

When I got back from my trip, it felt like the timing was finally right. I’m not sure if it was luck or fate that brought us back together, but one thing I’ve learned is that what’s meant to be will always find its way back to you.

We’ve planned a fun, non-traditional celebration, and we’d love for you to join us for one, two, or all of the events! The festivities kick off with a Cambodian ceremony on Friday. Feel free to drop by anytime between 8am and 1pm to experience this beautiful cultural tradition with us.

Then, on Saturday, the party continues! We’re hosting a short and sweet semi-formal ceremony at the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Peninsula. Ladies, it's the perfect occasion for those lovely spring dresses, and gentlemen, come looking sharp—think Ryan Gosling or Chris Pratt vibes! (No need for the full suit and tie just yet, though—save that for later!)

As night falls, we’ll gather for dinner and dancing at Hak Heang Restaurant in Long Beach, the city where we both grew up. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Since our wedding spans two different locations, we've found a few great places for you to enjoy your stay. Here are some options to make your visit more comfortable and convenient!

We’ve checked off just about everything on this list, and we hope you enjoy your time in Long Beach as much as we have!

The best gift we could ask for is your presence on our special day!

If you’d like to give a gift, we’ve created a small registry at My Registry.

In Cambodian tradition, it’s customary to give monetary gifts. During the dinner reception, we’ll visit each table to collect envelopes and blessings. A representative from each table, usually the eldest, will gather the envelopes and pass them along to us with their well wishes.

Please don’t feel obligated—your presence and joy in celebrating with us means the world!

A big thank you to the wonderful Christine Skari for taking these amazing photos of us!