Connect How did your love story begin?

We like to say we met through online dating. Casey arrived early to meet a date at David’s brewery and struck up a conversation with him about gut health over a sour beer. She quickly decided he was far more interesting than the accountant she was there to meet. Not long after, we went mushroom foraging on our first date and shared frozen plums as a snack. Those plums would later become a meaningful symbol throughout our relationship.

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

After COVID delayed our honeymoon for two years, we finally traveled to Costa Rica. While there, we visited La Mystica Healing Arts Retreat and hiked to the Arbol Viejo, a massive ancient tree deep in the forest. Its incredible size made us look miniature in our photos, but it was its presence that left the greatest impression. Sharing that awe-filled moment together became one of the most meaningful memories of our honeymoon.

What would you do with $20,000?

We own an 11-acre farm originally started by Casey’s great-grandparents. As entrepreneurs still recovering from the financial impact of COVID, we’d use the prize to make much-needed repairs and improvements to our home and property. We’ve modeled our homestead after the peace and beauty we experienced in Costa Rica, creating our own retreat. Our goal is to invest in a place where we can slow down, be present, and enjoy building our life together.