Love stories are as unique as the people who live them. Sometimes they begin through mutual friends, sometimes by chance meetings, and sometimes through moments that feel unmistakably meant to be.
While Valentine’s Day may have passed, February remains a time to celebrate love in all its forms — and we’re excited to once again share the love stories of our SBSI team members and the meaningful connections that have shaped their lives.
From college years and blind carpools to dating apps and decades-long partnerships, these SBSI Sweethearts remind us that love has a way of finding us, often when we least expect it. From our hearts to yours, we hope you enjoy reading their stories.
Shelley Johnson, Branch Operations Manager – South Portland
Although Shelley and her husband Will later discovered their paths had been crossing since childhood, it wasn’t until 2014 that they officially met. Both were invited out for drinks with a group of mutual friends, and the rest, as they say, was history. This September, Shelley and Will will celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary, marking a decade of love and shared memories.
Crysta Frost, Financial Services Assistant
Crysta likes to say she met her husband, Austin, through a “blind carpool orchestrated by God.” At the time, Crysta was finishing her third year at Smith College in Massachusetts, while Austin was wrapping up his second year at SMCC in Maine.
When Crysta’s friends encouraged her to attend a Christian retreat in New Hampshire, she hesitated — eager to return home to Maine first. A friend suggested a compromise: head home, then carpool to the retreat with SMCC students. Crysta agreed, and in May of 2014, she met the carpool driver — the very young man who would one day become her husband.
Jake Vanidestine, Branch Operations Manager – Old Orchard Beach
Jake met his partner in downtown Portland during their college years in 2019. Over the last six years, they’ve grown into best friends, building a life filled with adventure. In 2024, they married in Thailand — creating memories that span continents and celebrate a love rooted in friendship.
Cara Gobeil, VP, Audit Manager
Cara and Carl matched on the dating app Bumble four years ago and went on their first date — completely unaware they had met before. Months later, they realized Cara had actually photographed Carl’s first wedding 24 years earlier! The couple still laughs every time they share the story with family and friends. Cara and Carl were married this past September, turning a full-circle moment into a forever love story.
Karen Gendron, Transaction Services Manager
Karen met her partner Mike in 1986 at a Maine Mariners game, and 40 years later, the two are still happily together. Their story is a testament to enduring love, shared experiences, and the kind of partnership that stands the test of time.
Courtney Taylor, VP, Marketing Manager
Courtney and Jake met while bartending together in college, where long shifts and shared laughs sparked something special. They’ll be celebrating 15 years together in 2026, marking a journey filled with growth, partnership, and plenty of stories along the way.
