“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.”
From Friendship to a Lifelong Commitment: Billy + Chaneika
It’s time to meet our next married couple of the Love Experience Cycle 3, Billy and Chaneika! Today, they’re here to discuss their two decades worth of love and friendship. Please take a moment and check out their full story below (You won’t regret it):
How did you two meet? What were some of you first impressions?
Billy: We met a long time ago, back in elementary school.
Chaneika: We grew up on the same street, went to the same schools, and had a lot of mutual friends. With all that being said, we never paid attention to each other. We were always friends though.
How long have you two been together or married?
Billy: Romantically, we’ve been together since senior year of high school. That puts us at twenty years. We’ve been married for twelve.
At what point in your relationship did you realize you wanted to get married?
Billy: For me, it was the moment we decided to purchase a home together. I came to the realization that Chaneika deserves more than a girlfriend title, especially since we purchased a home together. It was time to solidify her position as my wife.
Chaneika: As a woman, there are certain characteristics you look for in a partner. Billy has all of them! He has a great personality (Such an awesome guy) for starters. Plus, he’s very handsome. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What is the biggest strength of your marriage?
Chaneika: Laughter and humor! On our down time, we like to crack jokes on each other. Pretty much, we’re a comedy show.
What do you do together for fun?
Billy: Laughing, joking, and having fun. We like to attend parties and events together (We love music), going out to eat, and spending time with our children.
Chaneika: Like he said, joking, laughing, and partying. Also, we like to watch old comedy movies.
For anyone struggling in the dating world, what advice would you give them in regards to sustaining a healthy and loving relationship?
Chaneika: It has to start between the two individuals as a couple. You can’t let people dictate what you do in your relationship. That has to decided amongst you two. You have to be an individual first in order to come together as one. Know yourself!
Billy: Accepting change! Everything that lives, goes through a development process. We are constantly evolving, resulting in growth and change. Once you are able to identify those changes within yourself, a true of understanding your ever evolving relationship will come to light.
Chaneika: Eighteen year old us and thirty eight year old us, that’s a lot changes and development. What we wanted back then is different from what we want right now.
Where can we reach you?
Instagram: @__billmatic @imuneik