Well, we never imagined we’d be writing a story about how we got to where we are, but once upon a time while we were both working for the same firm, Rae and Jeff started working together. Jeff remembers being impressed by Rae’s strong relationships and he enjoyed participating in related client entertainment activities. Rae recalls being intimidated as Jeff was well-known as the expert in his specific field.

As our working relationship developed, we learned more about each other personally. After Rae was promoted to partner and as Jeff’s divorce proceedings were moving forward, we continued to develop trust in each other as well as a stronger friendship. Jeff realized, well before Rae did, that his feelings went beyond friendship and he explored in subtle ways whether they could take the relationship to a new level; Rae was less certain and felt it was important to prove herself independently at work; not as someone’s girlfriend.

At some point, Jeff realized he had fallen for Rae but found himself in a hopeless emotional state given Rae’s lack of interest. In an attempt to end this hopeless state, Jeff decided to sit down with Rae at a dinner to confess his love. Needless to say, the dinner didn’t go as planned and Jeff decided it was time to move on. After six months of limited interaction, Rae realized spending time with Jeff felt like being at home and Jeff noticed her attention toward him was different. Rae realized she was in love with Jeff and things were about to change dramatically.

Shortly thereafter Rae and Jeff began dating and started facing many of the challenges that couples face. Jeff and Rae both have a significant number of people important to them. Knowing how important each relationship was, we had to carefully navigate introductions to Jeff’s kids and to his family members, and to Rae’s family and friends.

Four years later, Rae survived a month in intensive care at one of the best hospitals in NYC. If nothing else, the PTSD associated with multiple daily near-death experiences (while she was in a medically-induced coma) is a great way to create a lasting bond in any couple. That being said, we don’t recommend this as a bonding activity!

Three years after that Jeff asked Rae to marry him, she said yes, and they whisked off to Italy and Greece for a month to celebrate. Now we will get married in September 2024, and can’t wait to celebrate with each of you!