“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 during the pandemic: David + Mora
Meet David and Mora of North Jersey, a couple that resided in two separate cities at the start of the pandemic. Over time, they made a decision to live under one roof. Read their love story below:
Where did you meet, and what did you think about each other when you met for the first time?
Mora: We actually met on Tinder, but we didn’t physically meet for a month. During that time, we were facetiming, texting, and calling. It was our time to get to know each other without anything else influencing us. When I first met him, I was really surprised by David’s calm energy. I knew things were going to be fine, more than great!
David: There was a seamless transition of energy between our first few conversations to meeting in person. It made things that much easier, and the foundation stronger.
How has your relationship grown through the pandemic?
Mora: The pandemic brought new stressors that didn’t exist. When the pandemic started, we didn’t live together yet. We made a decision to quarantine together, since we thought everything was only going to last two to three months. I didn’t think that far ahead in regards to what that meant for our relationship. Three months turned into six months, and then we discussed living together. That was a huge step for both of us. We didn’t take this decision lightly, but our love grew during this intense situation. It made us appreciate each other more. Now, we’re more comfortable in living space, and thinking about our future together.
David: We’re coming up on almost a year of living together, and the transition was never taken lightly. We had to make sure we were prepared for what we both wanted. Everything has been great though, she even likes my cooking now!
What makes this “Love Experience” different from any other relationship you’ve had in the past?
Mora: I can’t compare it to anything else I’ve experienced in my life. This is the most authentic we’ll ever get.
David: We actually chose each other, each and every day. She’s the person I share my inner most thoughts with (The person I’m building with).
Where do you see your relationship in the next five years?
Mora: We will continue to evolve as a couple, and have a few concrete goals that we’re ironing out. Right now, we’re just taking things day by day, and appreciating the growth.
David: There are places we’ve spoken about, and plan to be. We’re just living in the moment right now.
For anyone struggling in the dating world, what advice would you give them in regards to sustaining a healthy and loving relationship?
David: For people who are in relationships, there are going to be times when you have arguments. Remember, the person you are arguing with is your teammate and partner. The goal of it is for you to reach an understanding, and come out on the other end of the argument together.
Mora: You can’t stop working on yourself. When problems exist within a couple, it’s not one person’s fault. It’s two people contributing to the issue or solution. Being mindful of that and humble, no one is always right all the time. At the end of the day, if you’re having issues, choose how to handle the problem, and not attack each other. If you’re single right now during quarantine, be intentional if the plan is to actively date. If you decide not to date, this is time to look inward. We should be addressing all the things we’ve been avoiding. No excuses! Lets use the time wisely, and take care of what we need to internally.
Where can we reach you?
Instagram: @whitelydavid @alwaysmlove