Couple quit their jobs to start a proposal planning business—16 years later, they're bringing in fireworks and helicopters to create 'picture-worthy' proposals

Orientul Mijlociu

Michele and Marvin Velazquez had an unusual source of inspiration for starting their business: their less-than-perfect engagement story. The Orange County, California-based couple, both 46, are the founders of The Heart Bandits , a custom proposal planning company. Their love story is the foundation of their business, which brings in seven figures a year in total income. Michele, an Air Force veteran who worked in event planning, first met Marvin, an MIT-educated engineer, through work. After