LET'S START AT THE BEGINNING...

Nathan and Kavya first crossed paths as engineering majors at Ohio State. A shared class sophomore year put them in the same room, but not yet on each other’s radar. It wasn’t until senior year, when fate (and maybe a scheduling algorithm) paired them on the same capstone team, that things really began to shift.

“At first, I was appalled to be on a team with all guys,” Kavya laughs. “Little did I know that Nathan wouldn’t be like other guys.”

As they worked together, something started to click. They gravitated toward each other during class, and then found excuses to spend time together outside of it. “It felt too good to be true—we connected on almost every level. We had similar interests, identical work ethics… there was just this unspoken understanding between us.”

BUT TIMING IS EVERYTHING.

After graduation, Kavya traveled abroad while Nathan started his job in California. From opposite sides of the world, they kept calling, talking, staying close. “We realized pretty quickly that the feelings weren’t going away,” she says. “We didn’t want to fight it anymore—we wanted something more.”

Their first official date? A cozy coffee shop in Columbus. A quiet beginning on campus, and a sweet first date over cappuccinos.

 

THE PROPOSAL

Nathan spent three months planning the big moment. Every detail, every person, every surprise—he thought of it all. It was Easter Sunday, and the day started with a beautiful church service, followed by what Kavya thought was a spontaneous photo op at Alms Park.

What she didn’t expect was to walk into a pavilion and see Nathan down on one knee… and all her closest friends and family waiting to celebrate.

“He flew his parents in from Kenya, brought my best friends from high school and college into town—it was unforgettable,” Kavya says. “There was so much effort behind it. I’ll never forget it.”

 

WHAT'S NEXT?

Nathan and Kavya are tying the knot next fall, and they’re most excited about blending their families. Kavya, an only child, and Nathan, one of seven, are looking forward to the best of both worlds.

“I get the siblings I never had,” Kavya shares, “and Nathan gets to enjoy a little bit of that only child life.”

It’s the start of a new chapter—full of love, balance, and family at the center of it all.

Congratulations, Nathan & Kavya—what a joy to witness the beginning of your next chapter!

READY TO PLAN YOUR DREAM PROPOSAL?

Just like Nathan, you can create a moment your partner will never forget—with a little help from Richter & Phillips Jewelers. From finding the perfect engagement ring to planning the big surprise, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Explore our Engagement & Wedding services or book an appointment at our downtown Cincinnati location to view our complete selection and diamond inventory, or to custom design the perfect piece.