Connect How did your love story begin?

Jon walked into a party, and I was instantly smitten. I asked the host about him (who, unbeknownst to me, was lying for his own gain), and he told me Jon was gay. So, I just thought Jon was a handsome new friend I made... Months later, I invited him over for a fire with friends and asked, "How's your boyfriend?" He froze, the color drained from my face, and we both realized I'd been lied to. We went to IHOP for our first date the very next day, started dating, and now we're engaged!

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

Honestly, we probably should say getting engaged... but our favorite memory was a surprise anniversary "trip" (we're local, lol) that Jon planned for us in Boston. He made the whole day so "us"... art at the ICA, drinks by the harbor, a cheese board picnic (my love language), a sunset boat ride, and the best Italian dinner of our lives. We were tipsy, laughing, and totally in sync. It felt like time slowed down just for us. I'll never forget how happy I felt every second of that day.

What would you do with $20,000?

We'd use the money to finally have the wedding we've always dreamed of, after a few challenging years disrupting our plans. It's not about extravagance, but about celebrating our commitment and love in a meaningful way. We'd also put it toward some much-needed home improvements and investing in our businesses, so we can build a stronger foundation for the future we've always wanted. This would be such an amazing gift, and would help us move forward with a little more peace and a lot of hope!