Two non-drinkers walk into a bar...

Joe and Deanna first crossed paths at a Halloween game night, each decked out in costume—Joe as a bodyguard and Deanna as a Jedi. Though they played games separately, fate had other plans. After the game night wrapped up, a smaller group decided to continue the evening at Carson’s Karaoke Bar for some late-night singing.

At the bar, Deanna set her purse down at a table and looked up to find Joe standing nearby. Sparks flew instantly as they struck up a lively conversation and discovered how much they enjoyed each other’s company.

Deanna was especially impressed when Joe took the karaoke stage, singing with confidence and charm. Later in the evening, their paths crossed again, and they joined arms, dancing to “Sweet Caroline,” kicking their legs in unison, and laughing together.

Though the night eventually ended, their story was just beginning. They continued to see each other at various Meetup events and soon decided to go on their first official date: rock climbing!

One of my favorite memories with Joe was when we were hiking a trail in Maine called the Beehive. It’s not just a hike—it involves quite a bit of climbing to reach the top. When we finally made it, Joe—in his best old man voice—said, “It took me 87 years to get up here.” I couldn’t stop laughing, partly because of the voice, but mostly because he didn’t realize there was a guy just ahead of us filming his girlfriend. Joe’s voice definitely made it into the background of their video. I still crack up imagining that couple watching the footage later and suddenly hearing Joe’s old man voice out of nowhere.

For Halloween in 2024, Deanna wanted to dress up as a Sith (from Star Wars). If you know Deanna, she doesn't take the easy route with costumes: she goes all out. She searched multiple thrift outlets for the pieces that would make her outfits. We even went to Spirit Halloween for her full-body red makeup. The final product was nothing short of incredible. We went to several halloween parties that Halloween and people flocked to her for photos. It made me feel so lucky to have Deanna in my life.

Joe had a plan—a clever and heartfelt one. He invited Deanna to an open-concept escape room adventure at a place called Adventures of Intrigue. Deanna was excited and quickly agreed. Since the activity was designed for up to 6 people, Joe suggested she invite a few friends to join. Together, they coordinated schedules, picked the adventure, and set a date.

As the day approached, Joe casually mentioned a change of plans: the adventure they originally booked had been double-booked, and the manager at Adventures of Intrigue had offered them a different, brand new scenario. Deanna didn’t think much of it, but little did she know this was part of Joe's plan to throw her off.

On the big day, Deanna, Joe, and their friends gathered for a magical adventure to assist the head wizard of a fictional Wizard College with recovering stolen spells. The game was immersive, challenging, and a blast for everyone involved. Deanna didn’t suspect a thing.

As the adventure concluded, they gathered to receive the congratulations from the head wizard. But something unexpected happened. The wizard mentioned Deanna by name.

“Wait,” Deanna thought, “how does the game know my name? Is this normal?”

Before she could figure it out, the wizard continued: “Joe has a special question to ask you.” Deanna turned around, and there was Joe on one knee, holding a ring. He asked her to marry him. And, of course, she said yes!