Sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the most beautiful destinations. Martena and Javier's journey began in the digital halls of Hinge, where fate, in the guise of a home design enthusiast and a realtor with an unconventional marketing strategy, decided to play its hand.

He was the charming realtor, flipping houses and, in a twist of innovation, using his profile to showcase his latest projects to potential clients—mostly women who were captivated not just by the homes but by the man behind the renovations. She was a lover of home design, drawn to the beauty and potential of spaces, yet not in the market to buy. His strategy to sell might not have worked, but it sparked something far more significant—a connection that transcended transactions.

Their first date on January 5, 2020 is one the pair remembers vividly. Over brunch, they dived into conversations that were unusually deep for two people just getting to know each other. Discussing politics, systemic racism, religion, and so much more, they quickly lost track of time. The only thing that pulled them away from that moment was the mundane need for grocery shopping—a reminder that life's ordinary demands still called.

The first date led to another just a couple days later, then another, and another within just the first couple weeks. Date after date, the connection deepened.

As the world slowed down in the face of a pandemic, Martena and Javier's love story picked up pace. The two grew in love, flipping a house together, exploring their shared love for new culinary experiences, indulging in their passion for crafting cocktails, and, ultimately, building a family together.

From swiping right to saying "I do," their journey has been a testament to the power of love, patience, and shared passions. It's a story of how two people, brought together by chance, chose each other day after day, adventure after adventure.

HOW HE KNEW

Meeting Martena changed my perspective of what it means to truly connect with someone. At first, our journey took a winding path. Despite the deep connection we shared from our first conversations, I found myself at a crossroads, pulled away by another relationship. But the time came when I needed to make some choices, and it became crystal clear to me that Martena was irreplaceable. A life without her, our laughter, our shared dreams, and the effortless understanding between us wasn't what I wanted. That is when I understood Martena was more than just a part of my life; her presence in my life was non-negotiable. Choosing to be with her didn’t just feel right—it felt essential. With Martena, I'm home, and I look forward to every adventure with excitement, every challenge, and every joy we will share together.

HOW SHE KNEW

Javier has a unique way of making me feel like a princess warrior—cherished yet empowered. His gentlemanly gestures, like opening doors and gracefully handling our dates, made me feel deeply valued. But it was in our shared endeavors, like staging homes, where his respect for my strength truly shined. He never stopped me from taking on challenges, supporting my leadership and embracing my determination. With Javier, I never had to diminish my light; instead, his presence encouraged me to shine brighter.

Beyond this, the ease of being together is unlike anything I've ever experienced. I never grow tired of being with him; there’s no one else in my life whose company is as endlessly refreshing and comforting. His unwavering support and belief in me revealed the depth of our bond—a partnership built on mutual respect, love, and the freedom to be our true selves.

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Hotel closest to our venue: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Catonsville

Cool, boutique hotels (with good bars!): Hotel Revival and Hotel Ulysses

Waterfront, luxury hotel: Sagamore Pendry

Hotel with the best view of the city (visit Bygone on the top floor!): Four Seasons Baltimore

Five-star, Black-owned hotel (with a really good restaurant!): The Ivy Hotel

Near the airport: Hilton Baltimore BWI



BWI (Baltimore, MD): 15 minute drive

DCA (Washington, DC): 45 minute drive

IAD (Dulles, VA): 1 hour drive