Nomination Process FAQs
1. How long is the nomination window open?
Nominations are accepted from December 15 through January 16. Once the window closes, all submissions move into the voting and review phases.
2. Who is allowed to nominate a couple?
Anyone in the community may submit a nomination. This includes individuals, organizations, faith leaders, businesses, friends, family members—and even the couples themselves. Self-nominations are welcomed
3. What qualities are you looking for in nominated couples?
We look for couples who demonstrate meaningful impact and strong partnership. This includes:
Positive community influence or service
Partnership resilience and unity
Leadership and involvement
Evidence of growth, commitment, and shared purpose
Category-specific qualities relevant to their nomination
4. Can a couple be nominated for more than one award category?
Yes. A couple may be nominated in multiple categories; however, a separate nomination form must be completed for each category. This ensures the judges receive category-specific information needed for accurate scoring.
5. How are the top candidates selected?
After nominations close, all eligible entries enter a community voting period.
The top three couples with the most nominations (votes) in each category will move forward to the final review.
6. How does the nomination process work from start to finish?
Our process is fair, transparent, and community-centered:
Step 1: Submit a nomination using the online form.
Step 2: Nominations go to a popular vote; top 3 per category advance.
Step 3: A judges panel reviews finalists using a detailed scoring rubric.
Step 4: Winners are selected and announced live at the Gala.
7. Who makes the final decisions on award winners?
Final decisions are made by an independent selection panel.
Judges score finalists using a standardized rubric for fairness and consistency.
Founders do not participate in the scoring or judging process to maintain integrity.