We first met at the Ballyhoo Tavern—Mary had just started bartending, and Diego was working the front door. At first, we were just coworkers navigating the usual bar chaos, but once Diego moved into bar backing, we started to really connect. Our friendship grew quickly, built on late nights, shared laughs, and the kind of teamwork that comes naturally when something just clicks.

When Diego was promoted to bartender, we were paired up for Thursday nights at the back bar—and that’s when things really started to shift. Those shifts became the highlight of our week. We looked forward to them, not just for the fast pace and rhythm of working side by side, but because it gave us space to build something deeper. Behind that bar, we found this effortless connection—trust, teamwork, and plenty of sarcastic banter.

Outside of work, we started spending more time with the Ballyhoo crew. Somewhere in the middle of it all, things became more than just friendship—though we were both pretending not to notice it at first.

I still remember those post-shift trips to Steak ’n Shake with the crew. I’d always make sure to sit next to Mary, and without her knowing, I started sneaking salt shakers into the giant pocket of her cardigan. She never caught me. It turned into this little tradition of mine—my own quiet way of flirting. I liked the idea that when she got home and eventually found it, it might make her smile… and maybe think of me.

Eventually, the subtle flirting turned into something real. We started dating, brought home two rescue pups (both found in Terre Haute), and began building a life together—one that felt grounded, joyful, and very us.

After our Ballyhoo days came to a close, life slowed down in the best way. First came Harper—our sweet, curious, thoughtful little girl. Then Ava—our bold, spunky firecracker who keeps us on our toes. Watching them grow into their own has been one of the greatest gifts of our lives.

What started behind the back bar on Thursday nights turned into a life full of love, laughter, two mischievous dogs, and two amazing little girls. Now we’re excited to celebrate the next chapter—with all of you who’ve been part of the story along the way.