“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.”
Worth the wait: Leonard + Jenny
Today, we’re introducing Leonard “LJ” and Jenny to the Love Experience! Although they initially met back in 2018, it took a year for them to start dating. Slow and steady wins the race, right? Of course it does! Find out how everything went down below:
Where did you meet, and what did you think about each other when you met for the first time?
Jenny: LJ and I met at a party, and I thought he was the tallest man in the room. He walked towards my girlfriend and I, and we didn’t know who was approaching at first (We’re both baddies). It was me! We spoke for an hour and a half, and immediately hit it off. When it came time to exchanging numbers, he didn’t have a phone at the time. I thought he was lying to me at first (He told me his phone was broken). He can finish the rest!
Leonard: Let me provide some more context. Before the party, my friends Justin and Danny, told me about Jenny. So, I went to the party with an expectation to meet this amazing girl. When I made my way over to her, my phone actually died (I had to go to AT&T, and upgrade my phone the next day). Since I couldn’t get her number, I gave her mine. It was a complete shot in the dark. If it was meant to be, it was meant to be! I was hoping she would text me the next day, and she did!
Jenny: Unfortunately, I was fresh out of a relationship when I met LJ (I was dating my ex for two years and I just got my new dog Penny), and I wasn’t ready to date. I remember he asked me out, but I cancelled on him last minute. He pursued me for an entire year, and I wasn’t super responsive. He eventually asked me out again in 2019, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.
How has your relationship grown through the pandemic?
Jenny: Most of our relationship was nurtured in the pandemic. We were able to date outside for three to four months, and then we were in lock-down. Our relationship was very unconventional since we weren’t outside going on dates. We had to learn each other, and navigate challenges that couples don’t have to face in the beginning. It was a bit different.
Leonard: 2020 was a time warp for everybody. It was very similar to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber from Dragon Ball Z. When you go in there for a day, it feels like a year. Our first year in quarantine felt like two. We had to grow faster, and learn more about each other. We’re honest and transparent with each other, which made the adjustment very easy. We still got out, and do things like hiking.
What makes this “Love Experience” different from any other relationship you’ve had in the past?
Leonard: This is my first real one. I’ve had exes in the past, but nothing has lasted this long for me. Jenny has taught me how to love, and I’ve never been in love before. She’s taught me how to love as a man. I’ve wanted this experience more than anything else.
Jenny: I’m the complete opposite of LJ. Although I’ve been in quite a few different relationships before, I’ve never challenged myself to put this much effort into one person. It’s interesting because I’ve been in other relationships, and I’m investing so much into this one. How is that? For me, I’ve always been in flight or fight mode. I run every time something gets hard. This is the first time in my life where I’m working through conflict. That is a big difference for me. LJ makes me better, and has helped me become a better version of myself.
Where do you see your relationship in the next five years?
Leonard: Before we jump too far ahead, we want to focus on us. Kids change how you move. We know a lot of couples that had children early, and can’t do some of things we do now. You know, priorities! In the future though, we plan to relocate down south, have rings, and possibly give birth to some kids.
Jenny: I would like to get married before we have children. I’m very calculated with my decisions. I’ve made it to thirty-two without children, and I want to continue that path. The plan is for us to move-in together, get married, and then have children.
For anyone struggling in the dating world, what advice would you give them in regards to sustaining a healthy and loving relationship?
Leonard: Consistency, communication, and transparency. If you have to change who you are to get someone’s attention, that’s not the person you want. There are too many people that try to lie or change themselves to get someone’s attention. That makes for a toxic relationship. Let that person see you for you. In relation to us, having someone that can see and accept your vulnerabilities is a big key.
Jenny: In times of conflict, seek to understand each other, and not agree. I used to think that you could not overcome certain things if you’re not agreeing. Having small conflicts with LJ taught me that you don’t always have to agree. Sometimes, you have to seek to understand each other, and that’s going to take you further. If you can accept and comprehend what your partner is saying, that opens the door for better communication. That’s really key in a relationship.
Where can we reach you?
Instagram: @biggkuntryy_ @jenni.mh_11