WE'RE GETTING MARRIED!

Michael and Le’Nette’s story began in 2002 on the campus of the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou), where they first crossed paths outside Ellis Library. Neither of them could have imagined that a simple meeting would be the foundation of a lifelong bond. Although Le’Nette left Mizzou in 2004, their friendship remained constant. They stayed in touch, supporting one another through life’s transitions. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Le’Nette returned to St. Louis and enrolled in the Massage Therapy program at Sanford Brown College. Upon graduating in 2009, her very first client was—fittingly—Michael. Their connection was undeniable. So much so that people often assumed they were dating or had dated, but that wasn’t the case. Le’Nette never believed she matched Michael’s high-energy spirit or outgoing personality. She’s more reserved and prefers to remain behind the scenes, while Michael has always stood out with his bold and vibrant outlook on life. Throughout her journey, especially while considering chiropractic school at Logan University, Michael remained one of Le’Nette’s biggest cheerleaders. He never wavered in his support—even when others did. With his encouragement and unwavering belief in her, their relationship took a meaningful turn on November 21, 2020, when they shared their first kiss—eighteen years after their friendship began. Unlike many friendships that falter when they transition into romance, Michael and Le’Nette only grew stronger. If you ask Michael, he’ll jokingly say Le’Nette must’ve put a spell on him (lol), but in truth, their connection simply deepened into something extraordinary. Despite entering the relationship with no intention of ever marrying—due to past experiences—Michael was taken by surprise at how naturally and deeply Le’Nette made him feel loved. For the first time, he felt truly accepted. She never asked him to change but inspired him to evolve into a better version of himself. In Le’Nette, he found not just a partner, but a woman who desired to be a wife, not simply be married. For Le’Nette, Michael is the first man who has made her feel seen, valued, and emotionally safe. A natural empath who’s always put others first, being with someone like Michael—who genuinely nurtures her heart and spirit—was unfamiliar but deeply welcomed. His love affirms her, and his presence provides a sense of peace she had never known. Together, Michael and Le’Nette share a bond rooted in friendship, nurtured by mutual respect, and sustained through love and faith. Their relationship is a testament to how true friendship can be the strongest foundation for lasting romance. While no relationship is perfect, they have made a commitment to always be authentic with each other, to communicate openly, to encourage one another, and to stay grounded in prayer and God’s guidance. Their love is intentional, uplifting, and deeply inspiring. Michael often says Le’Nette is his voice of reason and safe space, and Le’Nette describes Michael’s love as the most consistent and affirming she has ever experienced. Their partnership is not only healthy, but deeply purposeful—a love that reflects patience, grace, and joy. “Love is patient, love is kind... It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 “Find a good spouse, you find a good life—and even more: the favor of God!” — Proverbs 18:22 (MSG) “Two are better than one… A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–12