Connect How did your love story begin?

Our love story began when Adam returned home from his military deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Being away and witnessing trauma first-hand helped Adam realize the importance of life and he began his family when he returned home to Rachel in 2005. However, for veterans, the battle never ends, and Adam started forging knives as a creative outlet and a way to tell his story. They then created a small business together focused on giving back to the veteran community through forging.

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

Our favorite memories are the many adventures we’ve taken as a family with our son, daughter, and dogs. Family is everything to us. Each adventure is an opportunity to experience something new, learn, and grow closer together, not just as a couple, but as a family.

What would you do with $20,000?

We would use the $20k to invest in our veteran-owned small business, Heritage Designs Jewelry & Knives. The investment would focus on finishing a space with equipment for hosting forging classes, including military veteran group activities. Expanding our forging community to include veterans on a regular basis will help veterans stay connected while doing something fun and creative together. It will also provide a successful family business with a meaningful purpose for us to be proud of.