How did your love story begin?

My first time visiting a new church, there he was—tall, handsome, and no woman next to him. The next week at the church picnic, I might’ve made sure he sat by me. He was easygoing, really listened to people, and was clearly adored by everyone. Right away, I knew I wanted to know him better. He’d been in a long, difficult marriage and was in no way looking for a relationship—but after a few dates, I had him convinced otherwise.

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

Our wedding day is hands down our favorite memory. Over a year later, people still say it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to—and we agree! His sister married us, our wedding party was all siblings, kids, nieces, and nephews. My niece wrote my vows, we had a caricature artist, a lottery ticket bouquet, and my mom made everything from the cake to the flowers. Celebrating our union with family and friends was truly unforgettable. I say at least twice a month I want to relive it.

What would you do with $20,000?

We have no definitive answer for this question! We’ve been a one-car family for months after buying a lemon, so paying off our loan + having a down payment for a new car is high on the list. Sideline seats to a 49ers game? Absolutely. Other possibilities? Saving for our first home, take his sisters + my mom on a vacation, put a chunk toward paying off school loans, get Joseph the golf club set of his dreams, and buy random people‘s groceries or pay their bills at restaurants.