Captivating Couples 2011

They met online, in grad school and even at an adoption center. Their love stories quell the naysayers and show us all that it can happen. Quit mooning over your exes and be inspired!

(And they’re in no particular order ‘cause we’re captivated by them all!)

Erica & Vanessa

Chicago, IL

Erica, 28, writer/restaurant assistant manager

Vanessa, 26, stylist/visual merchandiser

Erica and Vanessa got their first glimpses of each other on a lesbian dating site in 2009. Neither woman had a paid membership with emailing privileges, so the two settled on just “smiling” at each other. A few days later, Erica was at a local ladies night and was instantly drawn to one of the go-go dancers, who she recognized as Vanessa—the girl who kept smiling at her. They spoke briefly that night at the club, both feeling shy about their slightly awkward in-person meeting. A few days later, Erica found Vanessa through Facebook; they had their first date later that week, and have been a couple ever since. Erica enjoys foreign films, reading and writing fiction, while Vanessa is an extroverted fashionista who loves dancing and brunch with friends on the weekends. Erica proposed to Vanessa after seven months together, and wedding plans are in the works for September 2012. They say “a mutual love and respect for who we really are, and not who we expect each other to be” are the keys to keeping their relationship on the level. “Laughter and lots of affection doesn’t hurt either!”


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