Connect How did your love story begin?

Back in high school, in the middle of Anatomy class, Marcus passed Ariona a carefully folded origami heart. Inside, just three simple words: “Smile, You’re Beautiful.” Little did we know that tiny note would mark the first page of our forever. From that moment on, laughter, late-night talks, and countless adventures became the heartbeat of our love story. Through the years, we’ve grown together, built a life full of love, and now—on the very same day we first started talking—we’ll say I do.

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

Our favorite memory as a couple is the very first trip we took together to San Diego. It came after one of the darkest seasons of our lives—my fiancé had just lost his father to cancer, and I had recently lost my grandfather, who was a father figure to me and Covid had just ended. That trip became more than just a getaway—it was a healing moment for both of us. We had the chance to reflect, grieve, breathe, and just be with each other.

What would you do with $20,000?

Winning $20,000 would help us start our new life together as we relocate from California to Seattle after our wedding. We’ve been doing long distance while my fiancé works in Washington, and this would help cover moving costs and build stability. We’re also supporting my mom and sister with Down syndrome, so this would go toward creating a loving home for all four of us in this next chapter.