All the Details of DeVon Franklin and Maria Castillo's 'Dream Come True' Engagement in Hawaii (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

DeVon Franklin and Maria Castillo’s Engagement.Photo:Mersadi Olson Photography

Mersadi Olson Photography

Preacher and producerDeVon Franklinis engaged!

“Finding Maria has been one of God’s greatest blessings in my life, so I wanted the proposal to be as special as our love,” Franklin tells PEOPLE. “We went to Maui for vacation, I told her we were gonna do a photo shoot and during the photo shoot I surprised her with the proposal! It was truly a magical moment and I can’t wait to spend a magical life with Maria!”

DeVon Franklin and Maria Castillo’s Engagement.Mersadi Olson Photography

Franklin, 46, and Castillo, 29, walked hand-in-hand on the beach at sunset wearing white outfits, and stopped to pose together at several scenic spots. Eventually, the best-selling author led Castillo to a grassy cliff overlooking the ocean.

“You know, this whole time has really been an engagement photo shoot,” Franklin told Castillo, who reacted in disbelief.

“I’m still in awe of how it all happened! It was such a beautiful surprise, and I can’t even put into words how happy I am!” Castillo tells PEOPLE. “To know I’ll be spending the rest of my life with this incredible man is a dream come true. Here’s to forever with the love of my life!”

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After Franklin slid a sparkling diamond ring on her finger, Castillo began excitedly jumping up and down before kissing her fiancé and telling him, “You’re a beautiful human.” Franklin replied, “We’re beautiful together.”

The couple met about a year ago when Castillo’s then-business partner, trainer Mike Trusdale, introduced them to one another. Because Trusdale, who was also a friend of Franklin’s, thought the two would be a great match, he arranged a brunch for them last spring. Since meeting, they’ve been inseparable.

The pair made their red carpet debut at The Pink Awards in Georgia on Oct. 12, 2024. They stepped out together again the following month at the Merge Awards Gala, which honors individuals who successfully combine their faith with their work in entertainment.

source: people.com