Connect How did your love story begin?

Even though we’re both from the New York City area and both went to university in Maryland, our love story begins on Oahu where we met. I (Britt) moved to Hawai’i years prior with an ex but had finally accepted my queerness after a decade of denial. Out and proud Julie was stationed on Oahu as an Army Psychologist who was preparing to relocate in a year. She allowed herself a small window of opportunity to meet someone new before moving. When you know, you know. Ten months later I proposed!

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

We’re an adventurous couple. We had a beautiful planned elopement on a mountain top in the Adirondacks where our photographer also married us. It was intimate and so much fun. We stayed at a wonderful bed and breakfast that happened to have a married gay couple as traveling inn keepers. We called them our Fairy Godfathers because they took such good care of us during a special time when we couldn’t have our families present. Still, we had the love of community and allyship surrounding us.

What would you do with $20,000?

Family planning for LGBTQ+ folks is well thought out and full of intention. We froze embryos two years ago when we first started planning. Now that I (Britt) have completed my doctorate, we are looking forward to starting the journey to pregnancy this winter. Unfortunately, fully paid parental leave is not provided by Julie’s employer. With the $20,000, we could have more financial stability and time together as a new family without relying solely on short term disability and FMLA.