Our Story

How We Met

Over Thanksgiving break in 2022, Georgia was visiting home and waiting in line outside Khartoum—a lively bar in Downtown Campbell—with her best friend, Jayden. Right in front of them stood a group of guys with intriguing accents. Prompted by Jayden, Georgia asked where they were from, kicking off a playful guessing game with a handsome water polo player named Toğan, who had recently moved from Istanbul, Turkey, to play at West Valley College.

Inside the bar, Toğan finally worked up the nerve to pull Georgia aside. The moment their eyes met, they both knew it was something entirely different.

Early Days

When the break ended, Georgia headed back to the University of Oregon to finish her senior year. For the next six months, they mastered long-distance—talking nearly every day, with Toğan flying up to Oregon three times and Georgia visiting home twice. They made things official that Christmas when Georgia introduced Toğan to her family and friends.

The Journey & Milestones

When Toğan received an opportunity to play water polo at California State Fullerton, and Georgia graduated from Oregon, the stars aligned to close the distance. Georgia, her dog Shylo, and Toğan packed up and moved into an apartment together in Fullerton, where they’ve lived ever since.

Living together completely transformed their relationship, proving just how natural life is side-by-side. Whether tackling everyday routines or new adventures, they quickly realized they are an unbeatable team who simply loves being together. You can usually find them hiking with Shylo, trying out dinner spots, hanging at the beach or pool, or watching a good movie. They've also loved traveling—visiting Turkey in 2023 and 2025 to see Toğan’s family, and taking sun-soaked getaways to Hawaii, the Bahamas, and Florida with Georgia’s family.

The Proposal

On March 22, 2025, Toğan whisked Georgia away to Santa Catalina Island for a surprise two-night stay at a seaside resort. After a relaxing day at the beach club, he led her to a scenic veranda overlooking the bay, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him. Georgia excitedly said "Yes!" through happy tears, and they both agree it was the best day of their lives.

A Look Ahead

As we look toward our wedding day, we are so excited for what’s next! Life is wonderfully busy: Toğan recently graduated with his master’s degree, coaches water polo, and is eager to jump into his career. Georgia is working as a medical assistant in an Orange County cardiology practice and coaching a youth artistic swimming team in Irvine, all while applying to medical school with plans to start in September 2027.

We are so grateful for our family and friends who have supported us through every mile and milestone. We cannot wait to celebrate this next chapter with all of you!