Met at a punk show in 2019, reconnected in 2020, fell in love, got sober together, and now keep each other strong every day.
We would like to thank you for supporting Vanessa & Rafael in this year's competition. Your participation allows us to aid both the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Oceana in their respective missions to support hunger relief and ocean conservation.
We met in 2019 at a punk show in another city, where I drunkenly called him over while he was on a date with someone else. We flirted, kissed, exchanged numbers, and kept trying to make plans until he finally visited me in Austin in summer 2020—and we’ve been together ever since. I quit drinking in December 2020, and after reflecting on our relationship, he chose to stop too. We both struggled with alcohol, but now we support each other in staying sober every day.
What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?My favorite memory together is probably our first trip. We went on a weekend getaway and stayed in a teepee. He had an itinerary planned, bought a bunch of camping gear, and cooked for us out there—he’s a chef. We also went hiking, swimming, and just spent time getting to know each other better. We had only been together for a couple of weeks.
What would you do with $20,000?We would renovate our mid-century home that we love, even though it has its issues, and take a much-needed family trip. Did I mention he’s also really stepped up as a parent to my 16-year-old daughter? He’s a gem and we’re very fortunate.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like America's Favorite Couple, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
