ATL Plus Magazine will keep you in “The Know” by highlighting The Who, What, When, Where and Why of Atlanta emphasizing news, fashion, lifestyle, and culture.
Vision:
To become a mainstream culturally inclusive media outlet in Atlanta that leaves a mark on the mosaic of our diverse community.
Publisher/ Founder
Ebony Mayo
Editor and Chief
Desiree Sandlin
Director of Business Operations
Nilka Clayton
Chief Finance Officer
Romeo Owens
Project Manager
Sergio Guifarro
Media Chief Photographer
Geno Murray
Director of Sales and Marketing
Shay Ross
Music and Culure Director
Corey “Mr. Hanky” Dennard
Art Director
Malcom “Mac Muhammed” Wilson
Alax Grubbs
IT Director
Alax Grubbs
Public Relations
Ronnie Allen
Charlie Green
Marketing and Development
Chamina Curtis
Kareen Harris
Web Development
Joshua Sampson
Alax Grubbs
Michael Knottree
Contributing Writers
Star Rodgers
Wilson Murakaru
Megan Bolland
Terrance Pinckeney
Chandra Mcelroy
Sheryl Crouch
Mario Reyes
Media Correspondents
Charlie Green
Chandra Mcelroy
Jessica Ross
Sanaja Andre
Lori Hanford
Dr. A’Cire Newby
Contributing Photographers
Bob Mackey
Kevin Goolsby
Geno Murray
Larry Cooper
Vann Duffie
Jakari Kearney
Nelson Jones
Hillary Brown
Orlane Benau
Wallace Mehki
Donald Wilkins
Contributing Videogarpher
Juri Takesawa
Paige Ringelberg
Major Major Photography
Bob Mackey
Hair and Make-up
Domonique David
Diana Rochez
Sarah Owens
Nicole Martin
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Dear Valued Readers and Supporters,
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for embracing this momentous occasion with us – the release of ATL Plus Magazine’s highly anticipated Fall This edition is dedicated to celebrating the beauty, resilience, and transformative power of love.
Within these pages, we highlight Ten Extraordinary Power whose commitment and shared journeys inspire us all, Cast of Later Daters, whose authentic storytelling has redefined te narrative of connection, second chances, and growth. We take immense pride in presenting this dual celebration, and we are thrilled to have you as part of this journey. With your support, we can honor both the intimate bonds of partnership and the cultural impact of entertainment, making this edition an unforgettable milestone for our community.
ATL Plus Magazine has always aimed to represent the essence of Atlanta and beyond, showcasing events, opportunities, and individuals that shape our diverse cultural landscape. In this edition, we delve into the heart of love and connection, highlighting the creativity, vulnerability, and strength that define both real-life couples and trailblazers on screen. We firmly believe that each of you has a unique contribution to make, and we hope this edition inspires you to embrace love’s many forms as part of the positive change we strive to foster in our world.
With a wide readership and a reputation as one of Atlanta’s most respected publications, ATL Plus Magazine offers unparalleled exposure and recognition. The Fall Into Forever Edition will undoubtedly capture the attention of a diverse and engaged audience, providing an exceptional platform to showcase the stories of couples and creators who embody the spirit of lasting love and renewal. Together, let us commemorate this milestone, honoring the couples, artists, and influencers who remind us that love—in all its forms—is timeless. This edition serves as a testament to the enduring bonds and the power of unity that define our city and our culture. As we embrace the present and look toward the future, we celebrate love as the thread that connects us all. Join us as we make history together!
Your support and involvement in this extraordinary edition will leave a lasting impact on the legacy of love, connection, and storytelling in Atlanta and beyond. Once again, I extend my sincerest thanks for being a part of our ATL Plus Magazine family. It is with immense pride that I, as the publisher, guide this publication and continue to call this place “home.” Your engagement makes it all the more meaningful. Thank you for your unwavering support, and I eagerly look forward to the stories and experiences we will share in this remarkable edition.
Ebony Q. Mayo, Publisher,
Help for Healthcare Professionals, HHCP, is a nonprofit organization based in Georgia. We were founded to provide support and services to the members of our community who have devoted their lives to keep us safe and healthy. Nurses, doctors, paramedics, respiratory therapists, social workers, community health workers, and pharmacists; are only a few brave and heroic people making a difference in our lives and our community. While we stayed safe within our homes and away from the pandemic, these healthcare workers went out daily to face the dangers of the infection head-on.
HHCP aims to reach healthcare professional communities across Metro Atlanta to mitigate healthcare worker burnout, strengthen public investments in the workforce and public health, increase access to mental health care for health workers and address healthcare professionals overall wellbeing by valuing and protecting this special community.
Each year we provide targeted programs and services in fulfillment of our three core pillars- advocacy, education, and crisis relief. As we expand our Crossroads Education and Skills Training program, we ensure sustainability of the healthcare workforce. We do this by removing barriers that impede both aspiring and existing members of the healthcare ecosystems’ ability to obtain comprehensive training. Long-term, this creates healthier communities with better access to healthcare. wellbeing by valuing and protecting this special community.
www.helpforhealthcareprofessionals.org
GLASSES MIICONGENTEEL
The FALL INTO FOREVER: Love, Laughter, and Second Chances on Netflix
One of the show’s standout moments is watching its cast navigate modern dating norms. From learning about ghosting and catfishing to grappling with long-distance relationships, these “silver singles” face the same hurdles as their younger counterparts— but with added self-awareness and a refusal to waste time on the wrong match. The series highlights how dating culture has evolved over the decades, but also how the fundamentals of love remain the same.
Why You Should Watch
cast members. From their first dates to their personal transformations, we’ll dive into what makes each of these singles special. Their stories are not just about love, but about resilience, self-growth, and the courage to take a chance on happiness.
tuned as we introduce each of them in the following pages—because everyone deserves
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Love, Life, and the Later Dater’s Journey
2025 LATER DATER
Pam Land, a retired corporate flight attendant who spent years catering to the world’s wealthiest people, is a woman who’s had her share of
adventure, success, and love. However, after her retirement from NetJets, she found herself facing a new challenge: transitioning to a different phase of life while searching for that elusive “fairytale” romance. When the opportunity to join FALL INTO FOREVER, a dating show for mature adults, came along, Pam saw it as her chance to explore the possibility of one last great love story.
“For a woman who was alone and still believed in fairytales, seeing the ad for FALL INTO FOREVER was a sign,” Pam said, with a touch of humor. “It was the first ad I’d ever seen aimed at women my age, and I figured if Netflix was behind it, maybe I still had a shot at one last fairytale. Love is a rare and magical thing, and I’ve had a few of those moments in my life. I knew I still had time for maybe one more.”
Pam’s decision to apply came at a time of both personal and professional tranTGEition. Having just retired from a demanding job as a corporate flight attendant, Pam was facing
the reality of losing a significant income and benefits. Yet, she knew it was time to step away. “It wasn’t because the job was bad; I just wasn’t good at it. I wasn’t Martha Stewart, and I didn’t care anymore. It wasn’t fair to the company or the clients,” she explained. But what she did care about was finding love, and she was hopeful that FALL INTO FOREVER might just be the platform to make it happen. “I applied without any real expectations, but I figured, if anyone could make it work, Netflix could.”
But when Pam arrived to film the show, she was hit with a few unexpected realities. “The most surprising thing for me was meeting Logan, our mentor. I expected her to be at least 70, and I was shocked when I learned she was only 32,” Pam said with a laugh. “I’d been dating before her mother was born! It was clear then that dating had changed. It wasn’t about locking eyes and hooking up anymore. It was about something else entirely.” Pam, who had never experienced a blind date, quickly realized that this new dating dynamic was a bit outside her comfort zone. “I’m a babbling
idiot when I’m nervous, and I realized I was going to have to do this whole blind date thing. That didn’t help my nerves.”
As Pam navigated through her time on the show, her perspective on dating as a mature adult began to shift. “Dating as a mature adult is hard enough. Dating another mature adult? Even harder,” she said. “I figured, if a man is going to be worth my time, he’s got to be pretty special. The kind of man who’s adventurous, someone who’s still up for new experiences. I’m not interested in anyone who’s not ready to take on life with both feet in.” Pam’s frustration with the current dating landscape for older women was clear. “Love is rare, and older women have it hard. The men they could love are often in relationships with women half their age. It’s a man’s world, and that really gets to me.”
Despite her realistic outlook, Pam couldn’t help but reflect on her dating experiences. “I haven’t had a best dating experience yet,” she confessed. “The other cast members were much younger, and they still had a chance to find someone who wasn’t living in a retirement center. I, on the other hand, realized that I’m no longer older—I’m OLD.” This moment of selfrealization was a turning point for Pam. Throughout the process, Pam learned a few things about herself. “I’ve learned that I don’t like blind dates and will never do one again. The days of being the ‘hot chick’ are over, and it’s tough when you can see the disappointment in a man’s eyes upon meeting you,” she explained. “But at the end of the day, I’d rather hang out with my girlfriends than keep trying to fit into a world that feels like it’s moving on without me.”
Pam had an appreciation for her fellow castmates. “We didn’t really have a chance to connect deeply, but I hope we’ll get the chance to in the future. They’re all awesome people.”
Pam’s journey on FALL INTO FOREVER was not about finding a picture-perfect romance, but about coming to terms with her own desires and limitations. As she moves forward, her story serves as a reminder that, no matter your age, love can still surprise you, and it’s never too late to write your own chapter in the fairytale.
S t o p b y P e c a n J a c k s i n W e s t M i d t o w n A t l a n t a
f o r 3 0 + h o m e m a d e i c e c r e a m f l a v o r s , h a n d -
c r a f t e d b r i t t l e s , a n d c a n d i e s & c h o c o l a t e s
8 0 0 M a r i e t t a S t N W S u i t e E , A t l a n t a , G e o r g i a 3 0 3 1 8
Dr. LORI HANFORD Searching for Love and the Power of Personal Growth
Dr. Lori Hanford, a highly accomplished Student Engagement Coach and Media Correspondent, is no stranger to navigating life’s challenges. With an honorary doctorate degree in Humanities, multiple awards for her contributions in education, and a published author of Finding Love, Finding Me—A Neurodivergent’s Guide to Finding Love, Dr. Lori’s professional accolades and life experiences speak for themselves. Yet, despite her many achievements, one area of her life remained a work in progress—finding lasting love.
When the opportunity to join the hit Netflix series FALL INTO FOREVER presented itself, Dr. Lori saw it as a chance to take an unconventional approach to the search for a soulmate. As a media personality, she believed the show would offer a unique platform to showcase her journey in real-time. “I decided to join the cast of FALL INTO FOREVER because I’m looking for love to share this thing called life with,” Dr. Lori explained. “Being in media, I thought it would be a great fit for me. It would allow men to see my life as it is, and maybe it would help me find someone special along the way. Finding love in Atlanta, especially when you’re over 55, can be a daunting task, so I figured the show could give me some help.”
Despite the excitement and opportunities the show offered, Dr. Lori quickly found that dating at her age came with its own set of challenges. “Unfortunately, none of the men on the show turned out to be a match for me. But I’m still hopeful that I’ll find that special someone soon,” she said with determination. As a professional who’s seen the highs and lows of relationships and the search for love, Dr. Lori was prepared for the process to be difficult, but there were moments that even she couldn’t have predicted.
The most unexpected moment while filming the show was that I knew every man they set me up with
Dr. Lori recalled with a laugh. “Go figure! I thought the point of the show was to meet new people, but it seemed like the universe had other plans.” This unexpected twist added an interesting dynamic to the experience and made Dr. Lori more aware of the complexities of her dating life.
As she navigated the ups and downs of the dating process on Later Daters, Dr. Lori’s perspective on dating as a mature adult began to shift. “The show really changed how I view dating at my age,” she reflected. “What I’ve realized is that as we get older, most people are set in their ways. We’re not as open to change or trying new things as we once were. It makes finding a partner more challenging because there’s less flexibility.”
Despite not having a great dating experience on the show, Dr. Lori learned valuable lessons about herself and her approach to relationships. “I realized that there were parts of my life that I needed to heal. I had to go to therapy to work through some areas of my life that I hadn’t fully addressed,” she said. “It’s been an eye-opening experience. I also learned that change is okay, even if it’s uncomfortable. Growth requires discomfort, and I’m open to that now.”
Throughout her journey on the show, Dr. Lori also reflected on the support and wisdom that could come from others who were navigating similar experiences. However, she didn’t find the camaraderie she was expecting with her castmates. “Honestly, there wasn’t really any advice or wisdom shared between the castmates that stuck with me,” she admitted. “But that’s okay. Sometimes, personal growth happens individually, and that’s been the case for me.”
Although Dr. Lori’s time on Later Daters didn’t result in the fairytale ending she had hoped for, it was far from a wasted experience. It helped her realize the importance of self-reflection, healing, and the ability to embrace change. Her journey is a testament to the fact that, no matter our age or our life circumstances, we can continue to grow, evolve, and pursue the things that bring us joy. For Dr. Lori, that means continuing to search for love—and in the process, learning to love and accept herself more deeply than ever before.
As she continues her work as a media correspondent and student engagement coach, Dr. Lori remains hopeful that love will come when the time is right. “I’m still out here, still searching, and still hopeful,” she said. “I believe that the right person is out there, and in the meantime, I’ll keep growing, healing, and embracing the adventure that life brings.”
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Gioiello FINE JEWELRY
George “Nate” Brown Finding Love Later in Life
George “Nate” Brown, a man who has experienced both the highs and lows of the dating world, approached the opportunity to join FALL INTO FOREVER with an open mind and a sense of realism. With years of experience in online dating under his belt, Nate found himself exhausted by the constant vetting process that comes with searching for love through dating apps and websites. But when he discovered FALL INTO FOREVER, he saw a unique opportunity to meet potential partners in a way that was both genuine and refreshing.
“I’ve been on numerous dating sites and I was getting tired of the process,” Nate explained. “You spend all this time sifting through profiles and trying to figure out who’s real and who’s not. But the FALL INTO FOREVER show did an extensive background check on all applicants, which really allowed me to focus on the person in front of me, rather than their past.”
For Nate, the show represented a more curated and thoughtful approach to dating, especially as a mature adult who had already experienced the ups and downs of relationships. He was ready for a change, and FALL INTO FOREVER seemed like the perfect platform to meet someone who could truly be a match for him.
One of the most unexpected moments for Nate while filming the show was the number of incredible women he met during the process. “I didn’t think I’d meet so many wonderful women,” he said. “It was a bit overwhelming at first, but in a good way. There were several women that I found very attractive, and I had to make the difficult decision of who to go on a second date with.” The experience proved to Nate that even later in life, there are still plenty of opportunities to meet amazing people who share similar values and interests.
Though Nate’s perspective on dating as a mature adult didn’t dramatically shift during the show, he found that his experiences—both on and off-screen—were aligned. “I’ve been dating for a while, so I don’t think the show changed my perspective on dating,” Nate shared. “The experience on-screen mirrored what I’ve seen off-screen. At our age, we’re not looking for perfection. We’re looking for someone who fits
with our expectations and values, without having to settle or compromise too much. We’re looking for a true match.”
For Nate, one of the more lighthearted aspects of his experience on FALL INTO FOREVER was deciding what to wear for each date. Since the dates were blind dates, there was an extra level of uncertainty about how to present himself. “It was a challenge figuring out what to wear for each date,” Nate said with a laugh. “Since I didn’t know who I was going to meet or what they would be expecting, it was a bit stressful at times. But it was also fun to to get out of my usual routine and really think about how I wanted to show up for these women.”
Through the dating process on the show, Nate also learned something surprising about himself: he values cleanliness more than he realized. “I always thought that most people kept clean homes,” he admitted. “I mean, people look great when they’re out and about, so I just assumed that translated into how they lived at home. But I quickly realized that I was a bit mistaken. I am much cleaner than I thought, and I’ve noticed that not everyone shares the same standards of cleanliness.”
Beyond the fun and occasional surprises of the dating experience, Nate took away some important lessons from his time on the show. One of the most significant pieces of wisdom he gained was from the other castmates, who shared a common belief about love and relationships. “We all agreed that the right person will come into our lives at the right time,” he said. “You just have to show up as your authentic self and maintain your own set of standards. It’s important not to expect anyone to be anything other than what they are, and the same goes for us. We should stay true to ourselves and let love unfold naturally.”
As Nate reflects on his time on FALL INTO FOREVER, he is hopeful about what the future holds in his search for love. While the process wasn’t perfect and there were a few bumps along the way, he remains optimistic that the right person will come along when the time is right. For Nate, the experience was a reminder that love can still be found, no matter your age, and that authenticity, patience, and maintaining standards are key to building meaningful connections.
DOLFI N O
DIVE WEAR
ove, essons, & ater
Daters:
An Interview with Dr. Anise Mastin n i s e
Dr. Anise Mastin, Vice President and General Manager of Integrated Marketing, found herself in an unexpected but transformative journey when she joined the cast of FALL INTO FOREVER, a dating show dedicated to mature adults seeking meaningful connections. A strong, accomplished woman who has spent years focusing on her career, Anise’s participation in the show wasn’t just about finding love—it was about gaining insights into her own dating behaviors and exploring new ways to approach relationships. With a background in business and marketing, Anise approached the experience with an open mind and an eagerness to learn.
Her decision to join the show was rooted in curiosity and the desire for self-improvement. “I was intrigued by the opportunity to work with a Dating Coach who was trained as a behavioral scientist at Harvard,” Anise explained. “I thought, if there were any blind spots in my dating behaviors, this could be the perfect chance to uncover them, correct them, and increase my chances of success in dating— leading to a long-term relationship.”
However, it wasn’t just the structured coaching and scientific approach to dating that caught Anise off guard. It was some of the unexpected moments that occurred during the filming process. “There were two moments that really stood out to me,” Anise recalled. “First, the words coming out of my date’s mouth during our first meeting. And second, learning what ‘Big Willie’ meant in urban language while on camera. Those were moments I never saw coming, but they definitely added to the experience!”
Despite these surprises, Anise found herself growing in unexpected ways. Filming the show pushed her out of her comfort zone and helped her rethink her approach to dating as a mature adult. One pivotal moment occurred when the show’s dating coach, Logan, encouraged Anise to embrace vulnerability. “Logan insisted that I show vulnerability on my first date, which was a foreign concept to me,” Anise shared. “But during the filming, I was able to embrace the whole me—showing my soft side alongside my inner strengths. That shift in perspective was eye-opening.”
For Anise, dating wasn’t just about finding the right partner; it was about understanding and valuing herself in a new light. “I learned that it’s okay to share my accomplishments with a potential partner,” she said. “Before the show, I used to minimize or hold back my achievements out of fear that it would intimidate the other person. But I’ve come to realize that sharing these things early on helps me understand if the person has the maturity to appreciate them or if they see them as a threat. It’s a crucial part of finding the right match.”
Of all her experiences, Anise’s fourth date stands out as her favorite. This date was particularly special because her daughter played a role in making it happen. “My daughter picked my date from a number of pictures,” Anise explained. “The date was still blind for me, but she chose someone she knew would visually check my boxes for attraction. It made me feel supported and confident going into the date, and it turned out to be a great experience.”
Throughout the show, Anise’s journey wasn’t just about romantic connections—it was also about self-discovery. “My experience on FALL INTO FOREVER helped me become whole,” she said. “I no longer minimize my achievements or hold back parts of myself because of how
I fear others might react. Embracing who I am and sharing that with others is empowering, and it’s something I’ve carried with me beyond the show.”
Despite being on a reality dating show, Anise found that the process was largely solitary in terms of advice and wisdom. “We didn’t know each other during the filming process, so there was little sharing among the castmates,” she shared. “But the experience was still incredibly valuable. It wasn’t about leaning on others for advice—it was about discovering and embracing my own path to love.”
Suzanne Kimmons-Doty, a retired optometrist with a Doctor of Optometry degree, knows a thing or two about vision both literally and figuratively. After decades of caring for others’ eyesight, Suzanne found herself looking at a different kind of vision: the possibility of finding new love after the loss of her beloved husband, Chris. Having recently joined the cast of FALL INTO FOREVER, a dating show that focuses on the romantic journeys of mature adults, Suzanne was eager to open her heart again. She was drawn to the show because of its wholesome approach to dating later in life, which included family support and the guidance of a dating coach, elements she felt would help her embrace the process with authenticity.
“I thought the show was unique,” Suzanne explained. “It was based on a true documentary with a wholesome approach to dating later in life. I felt like it would be a good fit for me because I could be genuine and authentic in my own home, surrounded by memories of my life and my late husband. I was ready to explore new love, but I was also eager to meet men I otherwise would never meet organically.”
Filming the show at her own home added an intimate layer to the experience. Suzanne’s house was filled with memories, especially of her late husband Chris. As she embarked on the journey to find love again, she believed the presence of her husband’s spirit would be felt, guiding her through the process. And indeed, something extraordinary happened while filming that confirmed her belief.
“The most unexpected moment for me was when Logan, the dating coach, and I were sitting on my back porch talking about Chris. As we were talking, the wind chimes, which are my connections to him, wouldn’t stop chiming. It was as if Chris was there, cheering me on. That moment was so emotional for me. It made me realize that I was meant to be on the show—not necessarily to find new love, but to inspire other widows to try again. Chris was always my biggest cheerleader, and knowing that his spirit was present in that moment was divine.”
Throughout her journey, Suzanne discovered many valuable lessons about dating as a mature adult. She was guided by Logan, who helped her address insecurities and navigate the often challenging waters of new relationships. “Logan taught me that ‘pet peeves’ are not necessarily ‘deal breakers,’ and giving someone a second or third chance is healthy,” Suzanne said. “Dating later in life can be difficult, especially on a first date when you’re trying to get to know someone’s heart and soul. It requires vulnerability, openness, and
leaving baggage from past relationships behind.”
Suzanne also learned to be more assertive, both in conversations and when asking someone for a second date. “I had to realize that I have a right to ask for what I want,” she shared. “It’s easy to fall into the trap of waiting for someone else to take the lead, but sometimes, you have to take control of your own destiny.”
While her dating experiences on the show didn’t result in lasting love, Suzanne did enjoy two standout dates that left lasting memories. One of her favorite dates was with Jeff at a vineyard. “The date at the vineyard was breathtaking,” Suzanne recalled. “Learning about harvest and winemaking was so educational, and Jeff was not only handsome, but he was also a ‘hot Italian,’ which made the experience even more enjoyable.” Another memorable date was with Avery, a fun-loving guy with a great sense of humor. “I had a blast teasing him about his allegiance to Alabama. Being able to have some playful fun on national TV was a dream come true. It was just a good time.”
Through the process of dating on the show, Suzanne learned a lot about herself. “I came across as a free spirit vulnerable but guarded,” she reflected. “I love deeply and am eternally optimistic. But I’ve learned that starting a new relationship requires a healed heart and being transparent. Dating at our age can bring more baggage from past experiences than we had in our younger years. But I’ve learned that it’s important to leave the past behind and love honestly, wholeheartedly, and without hesitation.”
Though Suzanne didn’t necessarily find a match on the show, the experience gave her a new perspective on love and relationships. She felt encouraged by the wisdom shared among her castmates, even though they all had unique experiences and deal breakers. “I learned bits and pieces from all of them,” Suzanne said. “At the end of the day, we all shared a common thread of hope and optimism. We’re not hardened by life’s challenges—we still believe in love. I believe all of us will find true love again, and I’m excited to see how that unfolds for each of the FALL INTO FOREVER.”
For Suzanne, FALL INTO FOREVER was not just about finding a new relationship—it was about embracing the possibility of love again, and sharing that journey with others who may be walking a similar path. She remains hopeful and excited for what the future holds, confident that love is always worth seeking, no matter the age.
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Greg Carter
A New Chapter in Love
Greg Carter, President of his company, made an unexpected decision to take part in the dating reality show FALL INTO
FOREVER, a decision that would ultimately lead him to love and new personal insights. While some might approach such an experience with skepticism, Greg saw the opportunity as a fun way to explore the potential of finding a partner, all while stepping outside his comfort zone.
“Initially, I looked at the show as merely another avenue to possibly meet someone, while doing something fun that I’ve never done,” Greg says. Little did he know that the journey would not only alter his approach to relationships but also help him discover more about himself along the way.
The filming process brought many surprises, especially for someone with Greg’s experiences and history. “The most unexpected moment was when the film team told me that my second date would be a day on the lake skiing. I had a problematic hip and hadn’t skied in over 25 years…WOW, this was a trip!” he recalls, laughing. Despite the challenge, Greg was determined to make the most of the experience.
“I did manage to ski on the boat boom and actually had a good time,” he adds. His sense of adventure and willingness to try new things served as a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences are those that push you past your limits.
However, the process wasn’t all about unexpected thrills. In many ways, Greg’s time on FALL INTO FOREVER redefined his perspective on dating, particularly as a mature adult. “The experience opened my mind and heart to embracing the initial attractive qualities in someone and building from there. It’s so easy and not necessary to check
all the boxes on the first date,” he says. This shift in mindset allowed Greg to take a more relaxed, yet meaningful, approach to connecting with others. It’s a mindset that many people, especially later in life, struggle to embrace as they feel the weight of unmet expectations or unfulfilled desires. Greg’s journey showed that love doesn’t have to follow a script or meet a set of predefined criteria.
While the show itself did not lead to the spark of romance Greg had hoped for, it wasn’t a loss for him. “My best dating experience on the show was knowing it was over, LOL! I did not connect with anyone in a way that made me want to pursue further dates,” he admits. Though this outcome may seem disappointing on the surface, Greg’s journey on FALL INTO FOREVER led him to a happy ending nonetheless. The experience encouraged him to return to dating apps, where he eventually met his fiancé, Tessie.
Reflecting on his dating experiences, Greg notes that the show taught him an important lesson about patience and selfawareness. “I learned that there’s nothing wrong with taking my time and being ultra-selective while holding on to my values.” This realization allowed Greg to embrace the idea that dating doesn’t have to be rushed. He could take the time to truly connect with someone, ensuring that any relationship he pursued aligned with his deeper values.
Beyond the personal growth he experienced, Greg found lasting friendships with fellow cast members. He shares, “I’ve met several cast members after the filming ended and have really enjoyed getting to know them. All of the ones I’ve met are also super selective and seem to know what they want in a life partner.” It’s clear that Greg, like many of the other participants, was drawn to the idea of building relationships based on shared values and an understanding of what truly matters in the long term. “To build from our past mistakes and embrace this is a virtue,” he reflects.
In the end, Greg’s story serves as a reminder that love can come from unexpected places and at unexpected times. FALL INTO FOREVER might not have been the instant gateway to romance that Greg initially anticipated, but it led him to the love of his life. The show offered a platform for growth, personal discovery, and a renewed approach to dating—one that embraced patience, authenticity, and above all, the belief that love can come at any stage in life.
GREG GREG
Greg and Tessie Carter: A Love Built on Faith, Trust, and Partnership
Greg and Tessie Carter: A Love Built on Faith, Trust, and Partnership
Greg Carter, a seasoned business owner and President, and his partner Tessie share a love story that has unfolded in a way neither of them could have predicted. Their journey began not in the traditional way, but on a dating app after Greg’s appearance on FALL INTO FOREVER, and from there, it blossomed into something much more profound. Their connection grew quickly as they discovered shared values, including a strong faith in God, a love of family, and a desire for a lifelong partnership. What started with a message on Hinge turned into long phone conversations and ultimately a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, where they had their first face-to-face meeting.
“It was obvious there was a connection,” Greg recalls, as he and Tessie spent a few days together getting to know each other. “We both felt an emotional and spiritual bond right away.” For both of them, this was no ordinary first date. Tessie was house-sitting for friends, and Greg drove down to meet her, ready to take a leap of faith. “Our attraction was not only physical but spiritual and emotional,” Greg adds, “and it was clear we were both authentic in wanting to explore a future together.”
Their connection was deeper than just shared interests—it was rooted in an undeniable compatibility that made them feel at ease together. The couple’s shared sense of humor also contributed to the bond they were forming, and they quickly realized how natural it was to be with each other.
Not long after they met, the couple faced a life-changing decision. “Soon after we met, my house sold, and Tessie and I knew this was more than just dating,” Greg explains. In 2024, they bought a large parcel of land, where they decided to build their dream homestead together. But this wasn’t just about constructing a house—it was a complete life overhaul. They needed to prepare Tessie’s farm for sale, undergo a major remodel, develop their land, and blend their families. Through it all, they leaned on their faith, supporting each other every step of the way.
Their professional backgrounds worked in tandem, and their strengths complemented each other. Tessie, a detail-oriented thinker who had run a business and farm for several years, and Greg, a seasoned entrepreneur with nearly three decades in construction, made a perfect team. “We pray together multiple times a day, read scripture, and engage in daily devotionals,” Greg says. “Our faith guides us in all things, and it’s been a source of strength as we navigate everything from the mundane to the major milestones.”
Despite the fast pace of their lives, particularly in a busy city like Atlanta, the couple has found ways to balance their personal and professional responsibilities. “Communication is key,” Greg says. “We commit to a weekly date night, and that has been vital in keeping our relationship strong. We also check in with each other regularly, sharing details throughout the day. It’s a beautiful way to build intimacy and trust.”
As both small business owners, Tessie and Greg understand the pressures of managing their respective careers, but they prioritize each
“Keep God at the center of your relationship. Love is both an emotion and a choice.”
each other’s needs above all. They support one another through the logistics of scheduling, decisionmaking, and the daily challenges of running their businesses.
Community plays a significant role in their relationship. While they are still praying and seeking guidance for how they might give back to the city of Atlanta, they feel strongly that their new homestead could be a place for sharing their faith and supporting others. “We believe God has a plan for us,” Tessie says, “and we’re listening for the ways He might want us to serve.”
Their love has not been without challenges, but the couple remains committed to each other through thick and thin. “As with all relationships later in life, people have scars,” Greg says. “We’ve set specific boundaries to honor and protect each other.” Their dedication to protecting one another from outside pressures has made their bond even stronger.
To honor each other’s individuality, Greg and Tessie make time for the things that make them unique. Greg enjoys watching sports, and Tessie has cultivated a love for caring for animals on her farm. They support each other’s hobbies, and through mutual respect, they’ve found ways to celebrate their differences while growing closer together.
“Laughter, dancing in the kitchen, being silly, and always speaking kindly—those are some of the ways we grow together,” Greg says. “And we make sure to prioritize the things that matter most, like praying and reading scripture together.”
The Carters’ advice to other couples is simple: keep God at the center of your relationship. “Love is both an emotion and a choice,” Tessie says. “On tough days, lean on each other. We listen with loving ears and support each other through life’s challenges. We pray about everything and let God guide us.” Their love story is a testament to the power of faith, communication, and mutual respect in building a lasting, loving partnership.
