Captivating Couples 2015

All you need is love!

SARAH & TANYA
Brooklyn, NY
Sarah, 38, public defender
Tanya, 39, social worker

Sarah and Tanya´s story began almost 20 years ago, when they were camp counselors. They kept in touch after working together, maintaining a long-distance friendship. They then fell out of touch, finally reuniting in New York, where they´ve remained together ever since. About eight years ago, they made it official in a heartwarming ceremony. "It felt like such a whirlwind," says Tanya, "but what we remember most is jumping the broom [an African-American wedding tradition], walking down the aisle covered in rose petals, and seeing our loved ones who were celebrating our happiness." Their relationship, she says, is based on "honesty and unconditional love. We have great respect for one another as strong, accomplished and intelligent women. She follows me on crazy outdoor adventures, and even when I get us lost, she still has faith in me." Says Tanya, "Sarah believes in my dreams and trusts me with hers. Her loyalty and generosity and wacky sense of humor are just a few of the highlights of Sarah´s beautiful soul." They´ve faced difficulties as a mixed-race lesbian couple, but thrive with the support of family and friends, and with honest communication. "We hope to continue to build on what we´ve developed and grow our family," says Sarah. "But most importantly, we want to be healthy and happy. And in love."


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