Connect How did your love story begin?

Jesse’s grandmother fell on Labor Day 2023. Deidre picked up time at the hospital as a nurse in the ER. As she was taking care of Grandma, she got to know Deidre. She said her grandson was single and wonderful. He came in after parking and we immediately built rapport. As Deidre discharged Grandma, Jesse asked for her number. We spoke on the phone days later and instantly knew we had a connection. Jesse brought 3 roses to our first date as a symbol: one red, one white, and one pink.

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

We took a mini weekend honeymoon to a quiet island resort in Belize. On night one we sat at the end of the pier, our feet dangling over the water. We talked about our shared vision for the future while looking at the stars and pointing out a stingray in the water. We knew what kind of life we wanted—building a family, a home, and community. We share the same values and beliefs, and can’t wait to impart our life lessons in the next generation.

What would you do with $20,000?

We had a courthouse marriage ceremony 6 months into our relationship. We knew we wanted to be married. We couldn’t afford a dream wedding—I’m a full time graduate student paying for school out of pocket. I am trying to be a nurse leader so I can bring much needed change to the profession. We are planning our dream mountain resort wedding for 2026. We would use the money to pay for the wedding and get our big day just for us.