We met over the garbage, and he proposed over Skype. Yes, Fabrice and I don’t have the typical romantic relationships, but together we are so very happy.

I still remember the night before I was to get on the plane for Paris two years ago. I was scared, uncertain that I’d made the right decision, and not very confident. Did I really want to spend the next two years of my life studying cuisine and pastry in Paris and leave my life here behind? I felt the same feelings of uneasiness when I stepped foot into the kitchens of Guy Savoy on my first day. Over the next two months, I literally gave the restaurant my blood, sweat, and tears, at times questioning my decision to work there.

But as I look back on those uncertain times, I realize there was a reason I was on that particular path. And that reason is now my fiancé.

After his whirlwind visit to the US in August, I figured Fabrice would happily return to Paris, start his new job, and that would be it.  He had told me on several occasions that his plan was to work in Paris for five to seven years and then look other places. I figured he wanted to stay put, so I didn’t push the issue.

When we returned to Paris, he suddenly realized that being with me in the US was more important, so as soon as I returned home, we began investigating ways for him to come here permanently. I won’t bore you with the details, but let me just say living in the US as an international citizen is next to impossible thanks to current regulations.

But fear not. This is not a marriage simply to get him into the country as some have questioned. This is a relationship based on love, trust and respect. Neither one of us has ever felt so connected to another and so comfortable. We’re not afraid to be who we really are with each other, and we accept each other unconditionally. It’s the kind of stuff I could only dream about. And now it’s all coming true.

When I turned 30 and there were no eligible prospects in site, I began to wonder whether I really would get married. My path hadn’t led me down the traditional road to marriage and children. Instead, I focused on my successful marketing career and then decided food was really where my heart was. I never allowed myself to really fantasize about a big white wedding, walking down the aisle and seeing a smiling man waiting for me at the alter.

On Wednesday morning, October 3rd over our normal morning Skype session, Fabrice proposed. He told me how much he loved me, that I am his ray of sunshine, and he wants to spend the rest of his life we me. I instantly erupted into tears, and the waterworks continued for the rest of the day. Of course I said yes!

After saying goodbye, I made the requisite phone calls to my family and friends, sharing the good news through heavy sobs. Feeling rather hungry and in need of my morning tea, I drove to Starbucks to celebrate. It just so happens that the Albertsons is right next door, so I treated myself to four thick bridal magazines. I spent the rest of the day, flipping through pages and pages of dresses, rings, hair, and makeup. But what made me the happiest was not the idea of getting married, but the idea of marrying him.

In December we plan to have a small ceremony at city hall in Paris. A handful of family and close friends will be on hand to witness this life-changing event. Once Fabrice’s visa is approved (between 3 to 6 months), he will finally come to the United States, and we’ll get married here as well. How often do you get married twice to the same person? I feel so honored.

He is the one. He has my heart, and he has touched my life in unique and beautiful ways.

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