THE LOVE EXPERIENCE: BRITTNEY + LATIANA

“The Love Experience” is an editorial project that features dynamic couples in love. The series, shot by fashion photographer Bryce Lennon, celebrates diversity through the perspective of underrepresented relationships.”

Dating with Intention: Brittney + LaTiana

Today, we’re introducing Brittney and LaTiana to the Love Experience!

This couple hit it off after meeting on the dating app, Hinge, and they’ve managed to create a safe space for love. Check out their full story below:

How did you two meet? What were some of you first impressions?

Brittney: We met on Hinge of course! I’m usually the type of person who takes more time before meeting people on dating apps. LaTiana and I had some really great conversations, and we decided to meet up four days after matching. We officially met at Coffee Cream & Dreams, which is a coffee shop that closes at 1pm. We know that because we were supposed to just meet at the coffee shop, but our date lasted until the evening.

LaTiana: My first impression of Brittney was that she was so smiley (A sparkle of joy). I felt that just by looking at her pictures on Hinge. I immediately wanted to get to know her. When I saw Brittney in person, she looked exactly like her photos on Hinge, but with a little more spice. Her blue crop top and flared bellbottoms immediately caught my attention. I thought she was cute and sexy. We ended up having a long date after that! Mind you, it was very cold outside.

What are some of things that keeps your relationship growing?

Brittney: We’re both committed to the growth of relationship. So, we do monthly love check-ins with each other. That includes making sure we’re not resting on our laurels. You can’t assume that just because you’re in a relationship doesn’t mean that your partner’s feelings won’t change.

LaTiana: We don’t take the action of love for granted. We dedicate so much time and effort in understanding how we can love and grow as long as we’re here. Like Brittney mentioned, we don’t assume that because we’re dedicated this relationship that our love won’t change. We want to be present for all the changes through a safe and happy relationship.

What is the biggest strength of our relationship?

Brittney: Balance for sure! In my previous relationships, I had to be the serious one. With LaTiana, she’s more dedicated and understands balance and order. So, she gives me the space to be more carefree and silly. Our love is easy! Yes, we have disagreements, but we’re both interested in solving our problems together.

LaTiana: Aside from balance, our communication is a big strength for us as well. We regularly check-in with each other in regards to our thoughts and emotions. Brittney’s become more comfortable with sharing her emotions. She knows I’m asking from a good place.

As couple, what do you do together for fun?

Brittney: Any and everything. I’m more of an extrovert and she’s more of introvert. I really love how LaTiana comes with me, and she’s down for the ride. I love to find free things to do, whether it’s a market or shop, and LaTiana joins me.

LaTiana: We’ve also started A to Z dates! Since Brittney is more creative with our dates, the A to Z dates help me come up with original ideas as well. For example, we’ve done axe throwing, bowling, and charcuterie board dates. We just love to have a good time together.

For anyone struggling in the dating world, what advice would you give them in regards to sustaining a healthy and loving relationship?

Brittney: Get a sense of your priorities. Think about some of things you value, and find that within your partner. Also, don’t compromise on your core values! That’s very important.

LaTiana: Go to therapy! It sounds intimidating, but its worth it! I needed therapy before getting into a healthy and happy relationship with Brittney. I wouldn’t be here without it.

Please feel free to comment, ask questions, and connect with both Brittney and LaTiana on Instagram below:

@abitofbritt5 @lridgell91

Thanks for reading!

THE LOVE EXPERIENCE: SEAN + SIOBHAN

“The Love Experience” is an editorial project that features dynamic couples in love. The series, shot by fashion photographer Bryce Lennon, celebrates diversity through the perspective of underrepresented relationships.”

A Rocky Start Leads to a Steady Foundation: Sean + Siobhan

Hey everyone, and welcome to the latest installment of the Love Experience!

To kick off Cycle 4, we would like to introduce everyone to our first couple, Sean and Siobhan! You can check out their full story below:

How did you two meet? What were some of you first impressions?

Sean: We met on OkCupid back in 2013, and we began conversing off and on for over a month. It was getting a little to weird for Siobhan at first, but she began to warm up after a while. Once we were able to get over that little hump, we went on our first date to some local bar. Siobhan brought everyone she knew in her life including friends, coworkers, cousins. Meanwhile, I brought my roommate (That was it).

Siobhan: I took a couple of car bombs and got drunk (I was so nervous)! As you can see, we didn’t fall in love on the first date.

Sean: Afterwards, I told my roommate, “I don’t know about her!” Luckily, we went on couple more dates, which really sealed the deal!

Siobhan: We finally got comfortable with each other by the third date!

How long have you two been together or engaged?

Siobhan: We’ve been engaged for almost two years (February 2021), and we get married in September of 2023.

At what point in your relationship did you realize you wanted to get married?

Siobhan: Despite our beginning being a little rocky, we moved in together after six months. We were very committed early on, and dated with intention. There were a few discussions about marriage here and there, and we took our relationship very serious.

What is the biggest strength of your relationship?

Sean: Our communication is very strong!

Siobhan: We’ve been together for nine years, and we accept the good, bad, and the ugly. Over that time, we’ve grown as individuals and evolved as a couple. We’re not perfect, and love each other because of that. I may be bratty and goofy, and Sean loves me because of all those things.

What do you do together for fun?

Sean: We like to travel, eat together, and attend Broadway shows.

Siobhan: What Sean said, but we really appreciate a nice dinner and drink situation.

For anyone struggling in the dating world, what advice would you give them in regards to sustaining a healthy and loving relationship?

Siobhan: Giving each other grace and communication. They’re really important.

Sean: Live in the moment and enjoy your time together. If you’re single, enjoy it. You won’t get that time back. Don’t put pressure on yourself. Everything will come together.

Please feel free to comment, ask questions, and connect with both Sean and Siobhan on Instagram below:

@stl_13 @sio.leonard

Thanks for reading!

THE BEST WAY TO LAYER THIS WINTER

What he wore: A blazer, hooded sweatshirt, camo pants, and boots

Style tip: The overall concept of layering is a complete game changer, especially if you don’t like wearing coats. Wearing your favorite sportscoat or blazer over a hooded sweatshirt is the key to insulating heat throughout your body. Do yourself a favor a wear neutral colors while you’re at it.

DO YOU HAVE A SLEEVELESS JUMPSUIT?

What she wore: A pink jumpsuit and heels

Style tip: If you picked up a jumpsuit this season, it better be sleeveless. In a fun pink shade, this twist shoulder, one piece is anything but boring. Top it of with a pair of heels for a complete look!