So, how did I meet this beautiful woman, Jasmine Nicole Perkins? I knew I was in trouble the moment I saw her picture. In fact, I tried to warn my co-worker (and now boss), E, not to even consider her for the open position we had. I remember saying, "Hell naw, E, you’re gonna get me in trouble bringing her fine … in here." Fast forward a bit, and E was getting married that summer. Since we shared some mutual friends, both Jasmine and I ended up with invitations to the wedding—without any plus-ones. Perfect! Lol. We decided to attend the wedding together since we didn’t know many people who’d be there. The ceremony was in downtown Chicago, making it the perfect spot for our first date. We spent the day exploring the city—shopping on Miracle Mile, eating Chicago-style pizza, and having drinks on the beach. It was an amazing time! Then came the wedding, and when I saw her in that blue dress and Louis Vuitton red-bottom heels, I thought, Sheesh, I’m in trouble (See pic below). At that moment, I was trying to play it cool—sitting back, not wanting to show my hand too early. After all, we worked together, so I had to keep it professional. Lol. But when she was on the dance floor dancing, she caught me looking at her & when we locked eyes it felt like I was right on the dance floor with her. After the wedding, we went back to work, and I tried to keep it low-key, but it didn’t take long before I had to send a text. I wanted to see if that spark we had in Chicago could still be there when we hung out again. And, of course, I was right—she was perfect. We kept it cool and low-key at work for the rest of the year, and no one had a clue. Eventually, E found out and called me after a night out with Jas, telling me, “Dane, you should shoot your shot.” I thought to myself, E, little do you know, I’m already on that! Lol. Since then, we’ve been inseparable. We’ve traveled together, dined at our favorite sushi and ramen spots, visited each other’s hometowns, and met each other’s families and friends. About a year before our engagement, we began building a family of our own and welcomed our beautiful daughter, Genesis Amelia Sparrow, into the world on July 26, 2023. She’s been a blessing, and every day with her has deepened our love. I’m so grateful to spend time with both of them and can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with my amazing girls. Enjoy our first ever picture together from E’s wedding where it all began!