“We were set up on a blind date in San Francisco 11 years ago,” says Carly Verna, recalling how she first met her husband, Jon. “We were supposed to meet for one drink and ended up going to dinner.” That dinner turned into a love story, and the couple has been together ever since. They’ve been married for six years now and are excited to celebrate Valentine's Day with their children, Meya (5) and Eli (3). Their home will be filled with festive decorations, seasonal treats, and the warmth of family.

Originally from Denver, Carly had always dreamed of returning to her hometown to raise a family. Although Meya and Eli were born in San Francisco, the Vernas made the decision to move back to Colorado three years ago to be closer to family. "We wanted to raise our kids in Denver,” says Carly. “My grandparents lived in the Hilltop neighborhood, and I even went to preschool here as a child. I love the beautiful architecture and the parks.”

For Jon, Denver was a new adventure. “I didn’t know much about Denver,” he admits. “But I remember driving down 6th Avenue for the first time—it was the most gorgeous street I had ever seen. Every house was unique and beautiful. That’s when I fell in love with the city." 

The Hilltop neighborhood has become their perfect home. “I love that most of the architecture on our block is original,” says Carly. “We have great neighbors and a strong sense of community.” Jon adds, “It’s an ideal bubble within the city—close to stores, restaurants, and everything we need.”

As a couple, Carly and Jon balance their professional lives with a love for family, food, and the outdoors. Carly works in medical sales, while Jon made the shift to residential real estate in 2024. Now working with Guide Real Estate, he has found his passion in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

The couple also continues to stay involved in their San Francisco brewery, Harmonic Brewing, from afar. “There’s a great sense of community in craft beer,” Jon explains. “We’re part-owners of Harmonic, and we love sending people to visit the taproom whenever they’re in the Bay Area.” Music and craft beer go hand-in-hand for the couple, with Jon playing guitar in a band with his business partner, adding a musical aspect to their brewery venture.

Their children, Meya and Eli, are active and always on the go. “They’re best buddies, only 17 months apart in age,” Jon says. Meya enjoys swimming, gymnastics, and riding her bike, while Eli is fascinated by construction trucks and loves riding his scooter. “They’re shy but incredibly sweet and curious,” Carly shares. “Both of them love to cook and eat, just like us. We’re a big food family.”

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion in the Verna household. Meya is especially fond of holidays and enjoys decorating the house with seasonal decorations. Carly has a votive candle holder that she changes out for each holiday, filling it with conversation hearts for Valentine’s Day. “The kids love eating the candy, one by one,” Carly laughs. The family also enjoys making holiday-themed treats like cookies and cakes.

This Valentine's Day, Carly and Jon are looking forward to spending time together as a family, enjoying the little moments that make life sweet. For them, love is not just about a special day, but about the life they’ve built together, surrounded by family and community. 

Happy Valentine’s Day to the Vernas!