How did your love story begin?

Our love story began in true Southern fashion—with social media and good food. We met on Facebook and planned our first date in a city neither of us lived in, meeting at Bubba’s 33. From that day on, we talked daily, always checking on each other with kindness and encouragement. A few more dates followed, always meeting halfway. It started as long distance, but somehow being together always felt like home.

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

One of our funniest memories was the first time I invited him over so I could cook for him—Southern girl style. I was ready to impress him with a home-cooked meal. He took one bite, looked at me confused, and asked, “Where’s the salt?” I said, “I don’t cook with salt.” The look on his face was priceless—like he had just discovered a Southern woman who broke every unwritten rule. He laughed so hard and said, “That’s a first!” To this day, he teases me for being a rare Southern breed!

What would you do with $20,000?

Becoming homeowners means more than buying a house—it means building a legacy. As a blue-collar man and a teacher, we’ve worked hard, sacrificed, and trusted God through every step. We would be proud to be the first homeowners in either of our families using the 20K as a down payment. More than anything, we’re showing our daughter that the American Dream is real. With hard work, faith, and love, dreams really do come true.