Connect How did your love story begin?

He walked past the jewelry store where I worked, saw me through the glass, and worked up the courage to come in. He told me about a book — The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell — then left without asking for my number. But driving from FL to VA, he couldn’t stop thinking about me. He stopped at a Barnes & Noble, bought the book, and mailed it to the store addressed to “the girl whose name starts with an I...” That package started a year of love letters before we we went on our first date.

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

Every adventure Ike plans feels like a gift — he’s thoughtful, intentional, and always makes sure everyone is taken care of. But one of our sweetest memories was spending Christmas morning in the Mojave Desert as a family, in a tent with a campfire. We were the only people there. No crowds, no noise — just us, our four kids, the cold desert air, and the most peaceful morning. It was simple and perfect. That’s Ike: finding magic in unexpected places and making all of us feel deeply loved.

What would you do with $20,000?

First, we’d tithe — that’s non-negotiable for us. Then we’d invest in growing our family business and creating experiences for our four children. We believe in building something that outlasts us, so a portion would go toward our legacy — whether that’s travel that expands our kids’ worlds or laying the groundwork for a business that serves other families. We’ve learned that the best investment you can ever make is in your people and your purpose.