Connect How did your love story begin?

Marlan and I met on the dance floor of a Chicago bar—when our eyes locked, the world shook. He asked what I was drinking, I said tequila—same as him. I followed him to the bar (to guard my drink!) and when he put his arm around me, it felt instantly right. We were wrapped around each other, inseparable. He texted the next morning to take me out, and over dinner we talked so much we forgot to order—twice. We knew something special had just begun.

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

One of our favorite memories is what we call “the first time we got married.” We met in Charlotte and took a romantic trip to Asheville—stayed in a tiny cabin, explored the city, and got matching fishing hook tattoos. Over dinner, watching him analyze the menu like the 6’3” computer he is, I thought, I want him to be the father of my children. It felt like we eloped—just us, fully committed. Two months later, we were engaged.

What would you do with $20,000?

With $20,000, we’d invest in our growing businesses. As we approach our one-year anniversary, we’re building a life of purpose—Marlan now renovates homes in underserved communities, and I teach dance to build confidence in kids. I’m launching a YouTube channel to reach even more children. This gift would help us expand our impact, create generational wealth, and pour back into the communities and children we care so deeply about.