I can’t believe it’s been one year since the big day! This year has flown by. I don’t profess to be an expert on this sort of thing because heaven (and Diego) knows I have a lot to learn. But this I know: I believe in marriage.

It’s not easy. In fact, it requires humility, vulnerability and so many why-don’t-you-just-screw-the-lid-on-the-toothpaste moments. But it sets the framework for the deepest, most loyal friendship I have ever known. We see each other at our absolute bests and also at our absolute worst – and within that, we have created a safe place for love and commitment. Knowing that just one person in this big world will always have your back and you have theirs, is one of the best feelings.

And the best perk is that it’s so much fun. I don’t think anyone ever told me about that part, just how fun marriage can be. It’s been the best surprise of all. There’s a new kind of romance in being married – where being together, no matter what you’re doing (whether you’re cooking dinner together or Netflix bingeing or scaling a mountain together), is all that matters. Everything is better with him by my side.

And now, just 365 days since that sunny September day when we said our vows in front of our closest friends and family, we’ve gone through extraordinary growth. I’ve used the name ‘Mrs. Silva’ enough times to actually respond to it without a double-take, and having a whole bed to myself now feels oddly isolating. But more than that, we’ve learned to love (and fight for) each other just a little bit more each day. I don’t doubt a few curve balls will be thrown at us in the years to come but come what may, I know we’re in for a grand adventure – and we’ll doing it hand in hand.

So yes, I believe in marriage. Despite the fact that the world is changing and expectations of how we live are shifting, I still believe in the power of this institution. I believe that there is someone for everyone, and that standing alongside one person is the true test of commitment. And I believe that it is every bit worth it.

So Diego Silva, I sort of really like you a lot. Thank you for being my best friend, for prioritizing our relationship and for making me feel like the most beautiful woman. Here’s to one year going on forever. Happy anniversary!

And side note: Can we talk about what a steal this $35 Shein gown was? The exact clutch can be found here. Other options below. Photography by Mckenzie Lowry.