Once upon a time, in the year 2010, two hearts crossed paths under the most unexpected of circumstances. We were both committed to other relationships at the time, but from the moment we met, there was an undeniable connection that sparked between us. Though we chose to honor our commitments and ignore the pull, fate had its own plans (and a wicked sense of humor).

After a year of emotional turmoil, breakups, and enough drama to rival a soap opera (we even had our own soundtrack playing in the background), we finally found our way to each other in 2011. Our journey was not without its challenges, but together, we faced them with unwavering strength, love, and a touch of insanity (we may have even questioned our sanity a few times).

In 2012, our paths took us on exciting new adventures in our careers—one at the Toronto Humane Society and the other at Conestoga College, training to become a firefighter. Moving into our apartment in Oakville with our two cats, Sam and BMO, added a new level of chaos to our lives (who knew two tiny furballs could cause so much trouble?), but they quickly became part of our quirky family dynamic.

Money was tight as we navigated the complexities of our bills on one and a half incomes, but our love only grew stronger (along with our skills in creative budgeting—we even considered opening a side business as financial advisors for broke couples). Later that year, we welcomed a new member to our family—our beloved Boston Terrier, Monty, adopted from my work. Monty quickly became the boss of the house, and we were just his loyal subjects (he even had his own mini throne).

In 2013, we planned to take our first trip together as a couple to Jamaica Negril. Eugene, however, had other plans and ended up with a broken ankle from playing hockey two weeks before we were to depart. With medical clearance to go, we set off on our trip of a lifetime, complete with crutches and a lot of sympathy drinks from strangers (we may have accidentally started a rumor that Eugene was a retired pro hockey player).

Six weeks later, we found out that we were expecting a child (apparently, our idea of "safe" wasn't as foolproof as we thought). Though we were not ready to become parents and were scared as to how we would manage financially, we welcomed our beautiful daughter, Charlee Sommer Medina, on February 18th, 2014. She quickly taught us that sleep is overrated and that baby-proofing the house is a never-ending task (who knew a tiny human could cause so much chaos?).

In 2018, we welcomed our second child, Auston Xavier Medina, on May 28th. Even though Charlee was not too happy to have a brother (we think she was secretly plotting to ship him off to grandma's house), their bond has only grown stronger each day (though so has the fighting and disagreements on a daily basis—we're considering installing a referee whistle just to maintain some order). Their sibling rivalry is truly a sight to behold, and it often leaves us questioning if they're plotting world domination or just fighting over who gets the last cookie.

During the pandemic, after being housebound for many months, we thought, "Hey, let's buy a house!" So, in 2021, we finally purchased our own home after years of renting (because nothing says "stir-crazy" like impulse home-buying). If that wasn’t enough excitement, Eugene decided to FINALLY propose on August 21st, 2021, in front of the CN Tower in Toronto (better late than never, right?).

As you can see, we are not your traditional couple and like to dance to the beat of our own drum (more like a chaotic symphony, really). Fourteen years later, we have finally decided to make it official in front of you all (because apparently, we're not content with just the chaos of everyday life).

We would be honored to have you join us in celebrating the culmination of our love story (and maybe even share a laugh or two).

With love,

Lauralee & Eugene

Hotel Riu Playa Blanca