Thursday, October 1, 2026

What’s Working

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ConnectionUpworthy

Female couple creates 30 days of ridiculous challenges to decide whose last name they’ll take

In an inventive twist on the traditional dilemma of choosing a shared last name, fiancées Bailey Adams and Larissa Scandora embarked on a month-long series of whimsical challenges to decide whose surname they would adopt after marriage. From racing in inflatable chicken costumes to apple bobbing with a competitive twist, the couple turned a potentially contentious decision into a joyous celebration of their partnership. This light-hearted approach not only showcased their creativity and humor but also strengthened their bond, with each challenge serving as a testament to their commitment to one another.

The couple's journey, shared widely on social media, resonated with audiences who appreciated their playful take on a typically serious topic. The challenges became a collaborative project, allowing Adams and Scandora to explore new dynamics in their relationship and engage with a supportive online community. Ultimately, while Adams emerged as the victor in their friendly competition, both partners gained something far more significant: a deeper connection and a memorable story to share with future generations.

Constructive analysis

The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.

The problem
Deciding whose last name to take upon marriage can be a challenging decision for many couples.
The actions
Bailey and Larissa designed a series of 30 playful challenges to determine who would take whose last name.
Evidence of progress
Their approach not only resolved the name dilemma but also brought them closer together and engaged a supportive audience online.
What we can learn
Others can learn to approach potentially contentious decisions with creativity and humor, turning them into opportunities for bonding and community engagement.
PERMA profile of this story

How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.

Positive Emotion
9
Engagement
8
Relationships
10
Meaning
7
Accomplishment
8
PERMA

Character strengths in play

Top VIA strengths this story embodies.

  • Creativity

    Scandora credits her soon-to-be-wifey and her 'creative mind' for upping the ante on each challenge.

  • Humor

    From racing in giant inflatable chicken costumes to apple bobbing, the couple took the seriousness out of the equation.

  • Love

    The real win was becoming even closer as a couple.

Try this today

Think of a decision you've been struggling with and create a playful challenge or game to help resolve it. Invite a friend or partner to join you, using the process to strengthen your relationship and maybe even share a laugh.