Married for almost 9 years, Shawn describes his wife Promise as one person that both him and this world needs. For Promise, Shawn is her favourite person to do life with. Filled with excitement and joy when it comes to dating each other, they share why dating in marriage remains special and meaningful to them:

"One date that stands out in my (Shawn) memory is a recent visit to a cafe in Johor Bahru. It was a beautiful space, and we were in a perfectly relaxed state to fully enjoy being 'in the moment' with each other. Connecting over conversations filled us emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.

If I (Promise) had to choose a favourite date, it would be the ones where we have time to explore new places. I remember taking random routes that we had never been on before and continually walking to see where it led us. It is fun to be on an adventure with your best friend! Discovering new things, learning about each other, and enjoying moments together makes such dates really memorable.

Even though we work together and are with each other almost all the time, we have found it important to take time out of the usual work and home routines to explore new places and interests with each other. There is #SoMuchMore to find out about each other and grow together!

We set weekly date nights in our calendar and take turns planning each one. Doing so gives us the opportunity to tangibly bless and honour each other. Of course, this is also done on a daily basis through little things like hugs and random 'I love you's. But to set aside regular, dedicated time to enjoy each other's company is really nice. We usually make dates a surprise and bring each other to our favourite restaurants or to try new activities.

It is easy to let time slip by without nurturing and building the relationship, so dating in marriage must be intentional. Dating doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, it is simply taking time out to get to know each other better and enjoy each other’s presence. Creating a system is helpful in sustaining it!

Marriage is one investment that we can never lose out on. Never take the time you and your spouse have together for granted; take every opportunity to spend dedicated time together.

No marriage is perfect. We have our ups and downs, including terrible fights we don't want people to know about. Remember your vows, choose to have those difficult conversations and choose to put connection before correction.

Don’t give up getting to know each other and building the friendship. You are going to spend the rest of your life with your spouse, why not make it fun and interesting?"

Shawn & Promise