I fell for the guy I thought I couldn’t have. Derek was the handsome gallery owner I assumed was gay. Plot twist: he wasn’t. I was determined to meet him by pedaling my art in his gallery. Our business partnership turned into countless adventures, supporting each other through hard seasons, passport stamps, and a love story that proves the best things often begin with the funniest misunderstandings.

It was the last day of summer for us in Michigan, we asked complete strangers if they could take us out for one last sunset spin on their boat. They said yes! Coincidentally they already knew us as “the pet portrait artist and the gallery owner.” we are spontaneous, we are messy, we are real, we laugh, we manifest experiences & connection. It perfectly captures us: curious, adventurous, and believing strangers are just friends we haven’t met yet.

As two small business owners, we’d invest every dollar with purpose. As a single mom of 3, rebuilding my career after 11 years at home, and Derek growing his gallery despite rising costs, $20,000 wouldn’t just help us, it would multiply. We’d reinvest in our businesses, create more opportunities, support our families, and continue bringing art, connection, and joy to the communities we serve.