Oscar De las salas and Gary Jackson | Married eight years
Oscar De las salas, business development/client relationships, Gensler
Gary Jackson, sales manager, Inside/Outbound – Dual Region, PayPal
How did your love story begin? We met formally at a state-level event, but we had seen each other out and about in the community. One night, out in the city, we exchanged glances, and we both thought it was time to go on a one-on-one date. Oscar took the lead and invited Gary to what now is known as “The Interview.” A late lunch on a Friday afternoon in the Sonoran Desert at the old Houston’s restaurant, Oscar asked all sorts of questions about life, past, present and with much detail; Oscar wanted to know about the future. The personal projection, the potential achievements personally and as a couple but, more importantly, each other’s relationship values. Through the conversation, we both realized that there was an opportunity, but where and how to start, it was for us to decide. Years later, we both agreed that “The Interview” was the first date. We never thought that marriage was an option for us back then, but when it became legal on a state level, we decided to take a stand. But since marriage was not yet equal in Arizona, we headed to Coronado, Calif., to exchange our vows – with 28 friends we consider to be family in tow.
Favorite thing about one another: Oscar: My favorite thing about Gary is his kindness and his ability to see the world as a place full of opportunities. Gary: My favorite thing about Oscar is his seeming fearlessness to venture beyond his comfort zone and enjoy life. He has the most free and infectious laugh and I think that comes from his open heart and his passion for life.
Favorite date night: A date night is always about art paired with good dining, which is also an art. Date nights don’t need to be complicated, but just about enjoying each other’s company and shared love for the expressions in art and creativity. A gallery exhibit, a play or musical, a jazz trio paired with a cocktail (or three) and a little bit of style with nice slacks and leather shoes for a later walk around the city.
Favorite tradition you have as a couple: We try to celebrate our wedding anniversary by taking a trip somewhere or with a party. Celebrating our right to marry is an important milestone to mark.
What does your happily ever after look like? We both agree that our Happily-Ever-After is already here – and it started when we found each other. And we see our future as one of investing back in our community and support the future of that next generation by giving our time to community efforts which influence the future of our youth, as they are the great potential for our city. We intend to continue to focus our involvement on programs that mentor and inspire kids to be more. Mentoring, arts, guidance, health, identity – so many opportunities to help so many youth. Perhaps we can help others discover their happily-ever-after we were so lucky to find. And perhaps a face-lift or two (not really, but hey!).