Meet Brandon, Amanda, Abigail, and Corbin from Western New York

Meet Brandon, Amanda, Abigail (11), and Corbin (3) from Western New York. We first met Amanda and Abigail overlooking the Schoharie Valley—quietly, as a mother-daughter duo. Brandon and Corbin joined them a few minutes after. Amanda, second-youngest of ten siblings, remembers a childhood filled with love, noise, and never-ending activity. “We were never bored,” she said with a smile. “There was always something to do and someone to play with.” It’s a spirit she carries into her own parenting—warm, present, and always making space for adventure. She now works at a preschool and daycare, nurturing young children just as she was once nurtured. Brandon, one of four siblings, grew up in the wild countryside. A true outdoorsman with a quiet strength, he now works in emergency communications, supporting first responders through complex radio systems and climbing tall towers to keep communities connected. His calm demeanor is the perfect counterbalance to Amanda’s vibrant energy. Their love story began at Turning Stone Casino, where they were both working. Amanda was Brandon’s boss at the time, and their connection grew after he left to work directly for the Oneida Indian Nation. Their first date was a simple movie night—but something just clicked. “I knew I wanted to see him again,” Amanda said. Brandon knew too: “She’s the exact opposite of me, and I knew right away we’d balance each other out.” Twelve and a half years later—with three of those as husband and wife—they’ve built a life full of laughter, connection, and intentional time together. When Brandon proposed, it was little Abigail, then just three years old, who held the ring. This summer, they’ve taken time off together to fully enjoy their children’s vacation. Instead of one big trip, they’re creating lasting memories through local adventures—a staycation of sorts that has included the Finger Lakes, the Utica Zoo, and now, Howe Caverns. Tomorrow, they may head north to Lake George or the Adirondacks. “New York has so much to offer,” Amanda said. “Why not explore what’s right here?” For Abigail, these moments mean everything. When asked what her favorite thing about her parents is, her answer was simple and profound: “I love that they keep me active and outside—and that they’re involved in my life.” Brandon and Amanda’a message to with the world is, “Don’t blink. Life goes by very quickly. Don’t take any moments for granted and make everyone count.” Your love, your laughter, and your commitment to each other remind us what matters most: making memories while we can, and holding our loved ones close along the way. Thank you so much or visiting Howe Caverns.