Our Story
The journey of Saloni & Sujay from childhood to forever
Saloni and Sujay's love story didn't begin in San Francisco—but rather in the unexpected halls of Kingswood Elementary School in Cary, North Carolina. Both were wide-eyed first graders in the same school, unknowingly walking the same hallways and sharing mutual friends, yet somehow never meeting. Fate almost brought them together again in high school—but in a classic plot twist, Saloni moved to California just before freshman year.
Fast forward 15 years—and across the country—when destiny finally got its timing right. On what was supposed to be her last swipe before deleting the apps, Saloni paused on a Hinge profile where a familiar childhood face popped up in the background of one of the photos. That profile belonged to Sujay. Two swipes right, one great conversation, and a lifetime in motion.
Little Saloni at Kingswood Elementary
Little Sujay's professional portrait
Though they attended the same elementary school, their paths never directly crossed. While Saloni was making friends in one classroom, Sujay was busy in another—both unaware that years later, they would find each other and build a life together.
Their shared North Carolina roots created an instant connection when they finally met as adults. They discovered they had mutual childhood friends and had even attended some of the same events, somehow always missing each other by mere moments—until the timing was finally right.
Their first date was at Sugar Lounge in Hayes Valley. Now, before you judge—yes, the all-pink bar was a choice, and yes, it became an instant inside joke. Sujay had just moved to San Francisco and picked a place halfway between them without realizing it looked like Barbie's cocktail lounge. But despite the decor, the date was effortless—they talked until closing time, laughing over drinks and swapping stories. Sujay even managed to sneak in a second date invite before the night ended by teasing a secret wine bar he knew hidden nearby.. Spoiler alert: there was a wine bar, and it turned out to be just the beginning of many hidden gems they'd discover together.
Dressed in their favorite color - blue
Since then, Saloni and Sujay have shared a life filled with adventure and joy. Together, they've traveled across five continents, from going on a safari in Tanzania, to riding camels at the Pyramids, to jet-skiing into the Indian Ocean off the coast of Sri Lanka. Along the way, they've been working their way toward dining at 100 Michelin-starred restaurants—a delicious journey still in progress.
Safari adventures in Tanzania
When they're not abroad, they love bringing the flavor home. Over the years, they've taken cooking classes together and now serve up an impressive homemade menu spanning Korean, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Hosting dinners for friends, trying new recipes, or recreating a favorite dish from their travels has become one of their favorite shared rituals.
But beyond the meals and the miles, what makes their bond special is how deeply they care—for each other, and for the people around them. Saloni and Sujay are known for making everyone feel welcome, included, and part of the fun. Whether in a crowded room or on a quiet night in, they lead with kindness, warmth, and just the right amount of playful banter.
Five years into their relationship, Sujay planned the ultimate surprise proposal—disguised as a birthday getaway. He convinced Saloni to join him on a weekend trip to Alila Ventana Big Sur, a breathtaking coastal resort nestled among redwoods and cliffs. With the help of the incredible Ventana staff (and an elaborate cover story about "test shoots for new photographers"), Sujay set the stage.
On the second evening, Saloni was told they'd be participating in a complimentary couple's photoshoot before dinner. As the golden hour light bathed the trees, their photographer Brandon gave Sujay the signal. With a racing heart and a carefully memorized speech, Sujay asked Saloni to turn toward him—and proposed.
The magical proposal at Alila Ventana Big Sur
After many happy tears and a very enthusiastic yes, the evening continued with a private dinner in the iconic glass house, where the chef curated a seven-course tasting menu inspired by their favorite dishes shared over the years—paired with wine, candlelight, and a view of the ocean. The night ended around a private bonfire, where they cozied up under the stars, reflecting on their journey and dreaming about everything that was to come.
Now, as they prepare to celebrate this next chapter, Saloni and Sujay are beyond excited to share their joy with the people they love most. Thank you for being part of the story—it wouldn't be the same without you.