Erica and Jerel met on a dating app, Hinge, in summer of 2023. On June 6, 2023, Jerel drove 2 hours from Kentucky to take Erica to dinner at a riverside Mediterranean restaurant in Indiana named Arazu. After dinner, they took a walk down the riverfront and talked for hours. Jerel asked if he could come back the next day to take Erica out again. Erica agreed and for their second date went bowling where Erica impressed Jerel with her immaculate bowling skills. Shortly after, Jerel and Erica spent almost everyday together. Their relationship grew and within a month decided to be exclusive. Erica and Jerel knew they had something special from the beginning. They shared similar interests, similar values, and similar humor. They knew they wanted a future together and didn't want to waste any time, so they moved in together a year into their relationship. Jerel proposed to Erica in their home on April 18, 2025 with Blade and Jetta by their sides. Erica of course said "Yes!" and they cannot wait for this next adventure together!