We asked some local couples a few questions for our Valentine's Day special feature, which appeared in the Feb. 12 issue of the paper.
Shannon Birk is a registered clinical counsellor and a specialty cake baker, and JP Zambo is a longshoreman and a pilot.
How did you meet?
We were set up on a blind date. We had talked by text but our first date was our first in-person meeting.
Tell us about your first date:
JP: While we were getting to know each other, Shannon mentioned that she had always wanted to try zip-lining. It was her birthday a few days prior so we set it up. It was pretty nerve-racking having to admit our weight to the attendant having just met each other, later discovering that we both minimized a bit (I might have been over the maximum allowable weight). The day we went it was rainy and cold but we still had a great time. We finished off with some nachos and a few drinks at a mountaintop restaurant.
How did you propose?
JP: I fly float planes as a hobby and part-time summer work. I was able to convince Shannon to come along on a "training" flight on a sunny day last October with myself and a buddy. We flew up to a beautiful alpine lake called Fire Lake where we landed and spent some time exploring the surroundings.
Down on the beach in front of the crystal clear waters, I got down on my knee and asked Shannon to marry me. I had arranged for my buddy to photograph the proposal from up on the hill. Of course, she said, "Yes." Our wedding will be held in a few months. We`re hosting it on April 26, at SFU's Diamond Alumni Centre.
What do you like most about each other?
Shannon: I love JP's compassion and kindness. He makes me laugh no matter what the situation is and I can always depend on him.
JP: Shannon is very intelligent and I love to engage in conversations with her. She has a wonderful sense of humour and is always there for me. I'm very lucky to have found Shannon.
What is your secret for lasting love?
Definitely good communication and not letting little things build up. Always being there for each other and having lots of laughs.
