The Way You Look at Me
Photo by Gopi Vasdak (@aawaari).
Melodic laughter fills the room when Kadin Dadd, 21, and Gracie Iporac, 22, step inside. Hands tied together, the pair eagerly reflects upon their relationship, a testimony to their stolen glances and soft-spoken whispers that they share.
They met in early 2023, planning their first date on a scenic hiking trail in Laguna Beach, a day defined by Kadin’s discovery of Gracie's fear of arachnids when a tarantula interrupted their stroll. Through time and patience their relationship blossomed further, allowing a tender understanding to develop between them.
Gracie works as a full-time EMT, and she sees herself working as a fire paramedic for LBFD or LAFD in the future, inspired by other women in the field. Kadin is a fashion design major at CSULB who desires to start a sustainable clothing business, having a more “environmentally conscious approach” to the garment process. Though they live different lifestyles and livelihoods, the pair cherish their ability to inspire each other to step outside their comfort zones, thriving in spontaneity and finding joy in discovery. Kadin admires Gracie’s tenacity and outspokenness, while Gracie finds solstice in Kadin’s soft, positive approach to life that allows her to see things in a different perspective.
Throughout their days, simple gestures become poetic verses – lighthearted picnics, shared glances and the warmth of intertwined fingers. Their love is a refuge for vulnerability, a space where they can be themselves and embrace their own unique qualities together.
As seasons change and love remains a constant, they can’t help but look forward to deepening their connection, coloring each day with mirth and adventure.
Photos by Gopi Vasdak (@aawaari).
“I love how comfortable I am with her. I’m usually not that kind of girl, but with her I can be.” – Gracie Iporac
“I believe our relationship is so beautiful, that it’d be hard to describe it in little words. There’s so much to reflect upon.” – Kadin Dadd
Songs to describe their relationship: Congratulations by Mac Miller & World We Created by GIVĒON