Avery & Te’ja met on August 14th, 2022 at Pete’s Fresh Market in Matteson, Illinois. They immediately recognized each other’s familiar face from the local gym. Both shopping for their meal preps in the early morning to beat the rush, Avery turned down the aisle where Te’ja was making her selection of avocado oil. A brief introduction and handshakes were exchanged between the two gym lovers before they both left unsure if they’d ever meet again. Almost two months after their first encounter, they met again at the gym, exchanged numbers and shared their first date on November 11th, 2022 at S.K.Y. Restaurant in Chicago, IL.

On June 21st, 2024, Avery decided to take Te’ja on a horseback trail ride she’d never forget. A beautiful Friday evening right as the sun was beginning to set, the two set off on a private romantic ride on their horses, Jack and Petunia. The instructor led them to an open field to give the horses a rest from the long day. Avery helped Te’ja off of her saddle and began to kneel. With a nervous giggle from Te’ja, Avery reassured her that yes this was definitely happening. With one knee on the ground and the other bent, Avery asked Te’ja to spend forever with him building a lasting relationship under the firm foundation of God. Te’ja said yes to forever and the newly engaged couple spent the rest of the evening surrounded by love and care at their favorite restaurant and first date, S.K.Y. The night was filled with sincere congratulations and admiration of the two and ended with their song, Claire de Lune filling the restaurant.