In the beginning, Kori and Donte’s story didn’t look like the start of a love story at all. Kori was Donte’s boss, and the two rarely spoke beyond what work required. They moved through the same workplace, living separate lives, never imagining that something deeper was quietly waiting to unfold.

Everything changed one December evening at the company Christmas party. What began as casual conversation between coworkers slowly turned into laughter, easy conversation, and a spark neither of them expected. By the end of the night, the connection was undeniable. Instead of calling it a night like everyone else, they made an impromptu decision that would become the true beginning of their story—a spontaneous first date at Waffle House.

It was simple, unplanned, and perfect.

The following week, Donte planned their official first date, taking Kori to The Capital Grille, a place that would later become part of their tradition. The night was filled with great food, deep conversation, and the feeling that something special had just begun. To this day, they still return to that same restaurant to celebrate the milestones of their life together.

The first few months of their relationship unfolded like many new romances—learning each other, spending time together, and slowly building something meaningful. Then the world changed. When COVID arrived, life slowed down for everyone, but for Kori and Donte, it brought an unexpected gift: time.

Time to be together.

Time to truly know one another.

Time to build a bond that would become the foundation of their life.

They spent more time alone together, growing closer and stronger, until eventually they took the next step and moved in together, creating a home and a life side by side.

Then came their greatest blessing.

In August of 2022, their daughter Laila was born—the first and only child they would have. From that moment on, their love story grew into something even bigger than just the two of them. Their family of three became the center of everything.

Years later, on March 30, 2025, Donte asked Kori to marry him. It was a moment that marked how far their journey had come—from boss and employee who barely spoke, to partners building a life and family together.

And ever since that day, they have continued their story the same way it began—together, happily, and always finding reasons to celebrate the love that started with a Christmas party and a late-night trip to Waffle House. The couple officially becomes Mr. & Mrs Fontenette on September 24,2026.

Because sometimes the best love stories start when you least expect them.