Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in all its forms – from grand romantic gestures to the quiet, steady partnership that defines a life shared together. But lasting love isn’t just about flowers or chocolates; it’s about resilience, partnership, and the shared experiences that shape the journey of two people growing side by side.
For the month of February, I am honoring two couples whose love stories reflect the beauty of enduring companionship. From their first meetings to the moments that tested and strengthened their bond, their stories reflect the strength of shared values, laughter, and unwavering support. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or celebrating decades together, you’ll be inspired to know that love, at its core, is about growing old hand in hand with the one who knows your heart best.
Karen and Matt Salter
How did you first meet?
Karen: We worked for the same company, Northern Telecom, a Canadian telecommunications corporation. I transferred to Atlanta from Raleigh, NC
Matt: I just graduated from Auburn as a software engineer. Karen was in marketing on the 7th floor, and I was on the 6th.
Karen: A friend from the Raleigh office who had transferred to Atlanta told Matt he should come up to the 7th floor to meet me. Matt did, but he paced by my cubicle for a while before working up the courage to speak.
Matt: It was Halloween, and I finally thought of something to say , “There’s a Halloween party tonight so you should go”. Not the smoothest line! We didn’t have our first real date until May – seven months later!
What was your wedding like?
Karen: It rained on our wedding day, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We were married at my childhood Methodist Church. The reception was in a hotel ballroom. I didn’t realize I’d chosen “Iron Bowl” Saturday – a huge deal for the Salter family! I wasn’t an Auburn fan then, but I’ve since become a big SEC football supporter.
What shared accomplishment are you proud of as a couple?
Matt: We’re proud to have been married for 37 years and to have raised three wonderful children. They’re all grown now, and we have seven beautiful grandchildren.
What are your family traditions?
Karen: Our three kids live nearby in Atlanta and Athens, and we have 15 of us altogether when everyone gathers. Holidays are loud and joyful, full of toys, football, and lots of food. Every June, we go to the beach as a family, and the grandkids love summers at the lake, fishing, tubing, and swimming.
What do you admire most about your partner today?
Karen: We both admire how much love we have for our grandchildren.
What’s your favorite thing to do together now?
Matt: Travel. When our kids were young, my job kept me busy, and vacations were rare. Now we love to travel – one of our best trips was to South Africa.
Karen: But we are at our happiest together when we are spending time with our grandchildren.
Advice for newlyweds?
Karen: Some decisions can be negotiated, like holidays, but others – like raising children – require collaboration. Always listen to each other with empathy
Chuck and Virginia Shaheen
How did you first meet?
Virginia: At a Christmas party. Chuck was so sweet and kind. He even walked me to my car afterward.
Chuck: It was a blind date in 2003. Virginia wore a shiny gold blouse and black pants – love at first sight for me.
When did you realize you’d found “the one”?
Virginia: Our second date. I invited Chuck to the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival Hot Air Balloon Glow.
Chuck: When I saw her walk out with two chairs, a map, and a cooler, I knew she was an answer to prayer.
What was your wedding like?
Virginia: Our fall wedding was beautiful with all the autumn colors. We had over 700 guests for a sit-down dinner, but our mothers were the most important guests that day.
What small but meaningful things do you do for each other?
Virginia: Chuck makes breakfast every morning. We play golf and spend time with our Great Danes.
Chuck: We kiss every morning and every night, no matter how the day went. I always tell Virginia how much I love her and how beautiful she is.
What do you admire most about your partner today?
Virginia: Chuck’s generosity and love for the Lord. He’s always trying to help others.
Chuck: I call my wife the “total package.” Thirty six years with the United States Air Force! She also understands my busy schedule and supports me. I love that we play golf together and share so much time.
Advice for couples starting out?
Virginia: Appreciate each other and never take one another for granted. Listen and make decisions together.
Chuck: Ask God for guidance, spend time doing what your partner loves, and don’t try to win every argument.
