Not all number exchanges or meeting between matured ladies and gentlemen may result in walking down the aisle. While some might come with ulterior motive of momentary pleasure, others might carry something more weighty.
However, the pendulum in most cases swing directions to where those involved want it to go. For the Ogunleyes, what took off on casual exchange of numbers gradually turned into a lifetime of commitment with building blocks of understanding, patience, intentionality, genuine care for each other and above all, love.
Let’s hear directly from our spotlighting couple of the week on their journey to Mr and Mrs after their brief introduction at a mutual friend’s housewarming event…
1. Can you take us back to how your love story started?
Mr Ogunleye: Our story started during a mutual friend’s housewarming in Lagos. I almost didn’t attend that evening because I had work the next day. She arrived later with another friend and immediately started helping the host arrange things in the kitchen. I noticed her calmness and how comfortable she made everyone feel. We were introduced briefly, but we ended up talking for almost the entire evening.
Mrs Ogunleye: I remember thinking he was unusually attentive for someone I had just met. Most people at the gathering were busy chatting loudly, but he asked thoughtful questions and actually listened. We exchanged numbers casually, but the conversations continued after that night.
2. What was the moment you knew “this is the one”?
Mrs Ogunleye: For me, it was when I saw how he handled pressure. He remained calm and responsible even when things were tough.
3. How many years have you been together?
Mr Ogunleye: We’ve known each other for 14 years.
Mrs Ogunleye: We’ve been married for 11 years.
4. What has been your secret to keeping the spark alive all these years, especially after the arrival of kids?
Mr Ogunleye: We remind ourselves that our relationship is the foundation of the family. So even with the children, we still prioritise time together.
Mrs Ogunleye: We also celebrate small moments —birthdays, little achievements, even ordinary evenings.
5. How do you both make each other feel special, even in small ways? What fun habits have stayed with you throughout your marriage?
Mr Ogunleye: I still compliment her whenever she dresses up, just like I did when we were dating.
Mrs Ogunleye: And I always make sure to ask about his day when he returns from work.
6. How do you handle disagreements or tough moments now, compared to your early years?
Mr Ogunleye: In our early years, we sometimes allowed emotions to lead the conversation. Now we try to understand before reacting.
Mrs Ogunleye: We’ve also learned that some conversations require patience. Taking a little time to calm down helps us communicate better.
7. What’s one thing your partner still does that melts your heart?
Mr Ogunleye: Her kindness toward people around her. She naturally cares for others.
Mrs Ogunleye: When he holds my hand during prayers. It reminds me that we are walking this journey together.
8. What was one of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome it?
Mr Ogunleye: Relocating to a new city early in our marriage was quite challenging.
Mrs Ogunleye: We had to rebuild our routine and support system, but we encouraged each other through the adjustment.
9. What advice would you give to younger couples hoping for a lasting marriage?
Mr Ogunleye: Choose patience and understanding.
Mrs Ogunleye: And always communicate honestly with each other.
10. If you could sum up your marriage in one word or sentence, what would it be?
Mr Ogunleye: Steady.
Mrs Ogunleye: A journey of love, growth, and partnership.