For the 4th of July, I normally post something about freedom because this holiday is all about freedom. However, today’s post includes a special interview with my friend, Kennedy Wilhite. She’s getting married on the 4th of July! I’ve enjoyed getting to know her, and I know you’ll enjoy getting to know her too.
Tell readers a little bit about yourself. Who are you and what do you do?
I’m a native Floridian living in Lakeland, which is right between Tampa and Orlando. I work full-time in human resources at an agricultural lender, and I work part-time as the Content Manager for Wholehearted Quiet Time. I also lead a weekly women’s Bible study and spend my free time baking, gardening, exercising, and having people over. Right now, wedding planning is also a big part of my life because I’m getting married on July 4!
Describe your relationship with your now-fiancé. How did you meet, when did you start dating, when did you know you wanted to get married, etc.?
Believe it or not, Stevan and I met online (specifically Hinge)! I still cringe a little bit when I think about it, but I’m forever grateful we found each other. God certainly has a sense of humor! Stevan claims he knew I was the one from the moment he laid eyes on me. I walked away from our first date knowing he was different, but it took me a couple months to know for sure. I think it was after we spent New Year’s together in Nashville that I knew I loved him and wanted to marry him. We got engaged on March 20, 2021 at Pass-a-Grille Beach. He pulled off the surprise of a lifetime—it was perfect.
What is it like to be engaged? What do you think makes engagement different from dating?
Being engaged is overwhelming in the best way! Stevan and I have both felt so loved and encouraged by others. So many people (from all stages of life) have kindly rallied around us. Our dating relationship was somewhat long-distance because Stevan lived about an hour and a half away, but now that he’s living and working in Lakeland, we see each other almost every day, which is absolutely amazing. I love doing life with my best friend!
How did you and your fiancé establish physical and emotional boundaries in your relationship—especially once you knew you wanted to get married?
I can be difficult to read. Stevan has referred to me as an onion multiple times! I speak feelings best through the written word, so he and I exchanged multiple letters on lots of important subjects during the beginning of our relationship. Physical boundaries are hard—and they only become harder during engagement. I’m reminded every day how much I need the Holy Spirit because I can’t withstand the temptation on my own! Stevan and I have had multiple conversations and resets. It’s so comforting to know that Stevan’s main priority is to love God, serve Him, and fulfill His will. We stumble, of course, but our goal is to glorify and honor God with our bodies.
Before you met your fiancé, had you been in any dating relationships? Whether you answer yes or no, how did that prepare you for your relationship with your husband-to-be?
Before Stevan, I only had one serious relationship. It was during my freshman year of college. Apart from that, I had dates for school dances and sorority formals. And I went on a handful of dates after graduating from college. Nothing ever came of those relationships, but I learned a lot about what I didn’t want—or need—in those relationships. I constantly had to check myself by asking, “Am I excited because I genuinely like this guy, or am I more in love with the idea of love?” It wasn’t until I dated Stevan that I could confidently answer that question. Not only did I genuinely like him, but I also loved him and trusted him.
What are your plans for your wedding?
We’re getting married on July 4 in Tallahassee, Florida, which is where I was born and raised. Our colors are red, white, and blue. And there will be an amazing firework show in honor of the 4th of July. We can’t wait!
What advice would you give to young women who are dating or engaged?
With dating, don’t waste your time if you ever think a guy might not be the one. It’s true when people say, “When you know, you know!” It’s the most mysterious yet surest feeling in the world. I also suggest introducing the guy you’re interested in to your friends and family members sooner rather than later so they can share wise insights with you. Also, have fun! The early stages of dating are so romantic and giggly and nerve-wracking and new. Savor every minute!
With engagement, soak up all the love and support from your friends and family members. Delegate as much as you can, and intentionally remember to put your fiancé first. The wedding isn’t the most important; the marriage is. Don’t forget that!
What advice would you give to single young women?
“What you don’t have, you don’t need” is a quote from Elisabeth Elliot that helped me so much when I became sad or discontented in singleness. I constantly had to surrender my desire for marriage and my desire for a family to God and realize His plan for me is always better than mine. When you surrender to God and confess to Him that He’s all you need, wonderful things can happen. God loves you more than you can ever imagine. Trust that.
Also, don’t waste your single years. There are so many things you can do to make the most of your singleness. Travel around the world, lead a Bible study, volunteer, have people over, learn a new hobby, and be spontaneous. Make the most of it!
Closing Thoughts
With the 4th of July coming up soon, I wanted to include a verse about our freedom in the Lord: “Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God” (1 Peter 2:16 NASB1995). Happy 4th of July, friends!
Tizzie's Tidbits of Truth 