How It All Began Constance and Jerome’s story begins on a fall evening in 2010 at a community event for the renaming of the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center. Jerome is there with his best friend, Charvez, while Constance attends as a guest of Shannon West and Tyrone Thompson. They know they share mutual friends, but don’t yet realize how connected they really are. Jerome notices Constance right away — he still remembers her pink trench coat and how she stood out in the crowd. He thinks, “This is someone I need to know.” Constance finds Jerome kind, handsome, and easy to talk to. Over the years, Jerome keeps checking in, always hoping for another chance. Thirteen years later, that chance finally comes. On July 22, 2023, Jerome texts Constance to ask her out. She replies, “Too hot to go out, but I could be persuaded to have poolside happy hour.” Jerome comes over to help break in her new pool, and the hours fly by as they laugh, swim, and talk. Before he leaves, Jerome tells her he’s waited for this moment since 2010. That night, they share their first kiss — and the spark becomes undeniable. Their Journey Together They both knew quickly that this was different, and the attraction for over thirteen years was stronger than they realized. For Jerome, after their first weekend getaway, he knew he never wanted to be apart from her. For Constance, it was early on; she felt both joyful and peaceful whenever with him. He keeps her laughing daily. Then, seeing Jerome fit right in with her family in St. Louis, he became an instant favorite, which meant everything to her. Since then, they’ve packed a lifetime into a short time: trips to St. Louis, Miami, New Orleans, Denver, Colorado Springs, and Puerto Rico. They dance at concerts, cheer at games, and love cozy nights at home. Always keeping love, laughter and communication at the heart of their relationship. The Proposal On September 21, 2024, Jerome knows he can’t wait any longer. After a jazz concert, he takes Constance to Circa’s Legacy Room rooftop, where her closest friends are waiting. Jerome, usually calm, is nervous that night — Constance notices right away. When her friends suggest a photo on the patio, she turns to find Jerome on one knee. Her heart bursts with joy. It’s sweet, thoughtful, and in typical Jerome style, hilarious - because Jerome forgot to make dinner reservations - so Constance is over the moon happy, but starving! Their Connection Their bond is rooted in deep friendship, faith, and fun. They are each other’s biggest fans and best friends. Constance loves Jerome’s joyful spirit and how he always finds gratitude in every day. Jerome loves seeing Constance smile and appreciates her giving heart — always seeking to help those in need. They talk about everything and love dancing together - so much so, that Jerome makes it a tradition that they slow dance every time they see each other after a long absence. Sometimes for him, that can be at the end of a long workday. It’s their way of staying close and celebrating love. Their story is proof that true love shows up at the perfect time. Looking Ahead Constance and Jerome can’t wait to celebrate their wedding day with the people who have loved and supported them all along. They’re excited to see everyone on the dance floor! For them, marriage means honoring what God has always planned. They know they are meant for each other, and look forward to growing in love and dancing through life together, hand in hand.