[Couple Spotlight] ‘We were partners before becoming parents,’ the Olayejus speak on everything romance, love, parenting in their 10-year marriage

This couple met 13 years ago at a family function. Yes, they shared contact and did the usual checking up on each other every now and then but nothing to suggest anything special from the beginning. 

However, they soon became inseparable friends and the feelings became mutual. Three years after a thoroughly tested and trusted friendship, they took it to the next level. It’s been 10 years of sharing life together and this couple have never for once lost the spark despite the arrival of kids.

One can tell and feel the deliberateness of commitment and passion to make their union work by listening to them. Their calm and deep rooted spiritual posturing is a pointer that they don’t joke with the place of God in their marriage.

You can’t but just love their type of loving and living. Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you my first spotlighting couple of the year, Mr and Mrs Olayejus!

1. Can you take us back to how your love story started?

Mr Olayeju: Our story started in a very simple way. We met at a family engagement ceremony in Ibadan where we were both helping with preparations. What started as small talks and teamwork slowly became friendship. I admired her calm nature and kindness, and before long, I knew I wanted to know her beyond that day.

Mrs Olayeju: I honestly didn’t expect anything serious at first. We just kept talking, checking up on each other, sharing daily life and prayer points. The friendship grew naturally, and love followed gently. There was no pressure — just peace.

 

2. What was the moment you knew “this is the one”?

Mr Olayeju: It was during a difficult period in her life. I saw her strength, patience, and faith. Instead of complaining, she trusted God and remained kind. That showed me her character, and I knew she was the woman I wanted to build with.

Mrs Olayeju: When I lost my mum, he became my pillar. He didn’t just comfort me — he stood by me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. That season revealed his heart, and I knew God had answered my prayers.

 

3. How many years have you been together?

Mr Olayeju: We’ve been together for 13 years.

Mrs Olayeju: And married for 10 beautiful years.

 

4. What has been your secret to keeping the spark alive all these years, especially after the arrival of kids?

Mr Olayeju: Friendship and intentional time. No matter how busy life gets, we still talk, joke, pray, and laugh together. We remind ourselves that before we became parents, we were partners.

Mrs Olayeju: We don’t allow routine to swallow our romance. Even small moments like late-night chats, shared meals, and random dances in the kitchen keep the spark alive.

 

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 Olayeju: I send her random messages and voice notes during the day just to check in and make her smile. I also make sure she never feels alone in anything.

Mrs Olayeju: I still pack his lunch sometimes, tease him, and pray for him daily. Every Sunday night, we sit together to talk about our week — the highs, the lows, and the funny moments. That habit has stayed with us.

 

6. How do you handle disagreements or tough moments now, compared to your early years?

Mr Olayeju: In the early days, we wanted to win arguments. Now, we seek understanding and peace. We’ve learned to listen more and speak calmly.

Mrs Olayeju: We choose our words carefully now. Sometimes we pause, pray, and revisit the discussion later. Growth has taught us that love is more important than ego.

 

7. What’s one thing your partner still does that melts your heart?

Mr Olayeju: Her gentle care and prayers for the family. No matter how tired she is, she still makes sure everyone is settled and covered in prayer.

Mrs Olayeju: When he prays for me and the children out loud. It melts my heart every time.

 

8. What was one of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome it?

Mr Olayeju: Financial struggles in our early years. There were times we had to plan carefully and manage little.

Mrs Olayeju: Instead of blaming each other, we encouraged ourselves, prayed, and stayed united. Those moments strengthened our bond and taught us gratitude.

 

9. What advice would you give to younger couples hoping for a lasting marriage?

Mr Olayeju: Choose patience and forgiveness daily. Love is sustained by commitment, not just feelings.

Mrs Olayeju: Marry your friend, pray together, and never stop learning each other.

 

10. If you could sum up your marriage in one word or sentence, what would it be?

Mr Olayeju:A journey of grace and purpose.

Mrs Olayeju: A beautiful partnership built on love, friendship, and God.