Laura’s prayers were answered the day I walked into The Press in Claremont in 2019. As I made my way to the bar, I noticed a woman gazing at me from across the room. In that moment, I knew I was one of the best-looking men she had ever seen.

When I turned my head to meet her gaze, Laura smiled at me and nodded, inviting me over. I couldn’t resist. Approaching her table, I kicked the chair out and flipped it around to sit Cool Hand Luke style. From her expression, I could tell she was captivated by my charm.

I knew then that I would see Laura again. Little did I know, however, that seeing her again would turn into one of the longest and most meaningful quests of my life. The reward? Marrying my best friend.

I didn’t know my prayers had been answered when Sean walked into The Press in Claremont in 2019, but I did notice him—mostly because he was wearing a punk vest covered in patches, looking like he’d just time-traveled from a ‘90s garage band.

When he made his way to the bar, I must have been staring, because when our eyes met, he flashed me this overly confident grin. I nodded for him to come over, but let’s be clear—it wasn’t for me. My friend thought his friend was cute, and I was just trying to play the role of wingwoman.

Sean strolled over with all the confidence in the world. I asked if he wanted to sit, and he replied, “Oh, I’ve been sitting all day.” True to his word, he refused to sit the entire time we were there (definitely not Cool Hand Luke style). But I have to admit, his charm grew on me. Little did I know, agreeing to exchange numbers that night would kick off the longest and most unpredictable journey of my life.

And now here we are—getting married. Turns out, sometimes the guy you didn’t expect is actually the one who’ll make you laugh forever.

P.S. The punk vest has not been worn since.