Yes they are married. If you want to make any money choose some other profession. I think collecting herbs on the road and making some potion from it is just a great example of role playing. Like mining and blacksmithing or else. Herbalism/Alchemy is the most fun pair in my opinion.

Eh, the most fun/enjoyable "couple" IMO is mining/Engin. You get so many toys including jumper cables, rocket boots, these badass helms, and ROFLCOPTERS!

Alchem/herb would still be 3rd for me behind mining/BS just cuz you cant make a Stormherald or a Lionheart champion to beat down nubs with... too bad my BS is only 290 =/.