Like many modern love stories, ours began with a swipe...

Melissa mentioned her love for the New York Times crossword puzzle in her profile, and Charlie, ever the thoughtful conversationalist, opened with a message about a talk he’d attended with Will Shortz, the crossword editor. He confessed he admired people who could do the puzzles, admitting he wasn’t “smart enough” for them. Melissa assured him that crossword skill isn’t about intelligence... it’s just a different way of thinking. That different way of thinking? It turned out to be a perfect match.

Our first date was brunch at a cozy neighborhood spot called Book Club. The week before, Melissa had told a friend she was about to go on her “last first date for a while.”

Charlie reserved a quiet corner booth, with flowers picked on the walk there. We talked for hours and made plans for the very next day. After wandering through the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, we grabbed lunch, where Charlie nervously asked, “Can I be honest with you?” Melissa braced herself for something bad. Instead, he said, “I don’t want to date anyone else."

Charlie and Melissa quickly became a trio... with Sydney. He and Charlie bonded instantly (to suspicious levels), and Sydney now enjoys his own plate at dinner, courtesy of the house chef. Charlie loves to cook and garden, and Melissa loves that she doesn't. We spend our days listening to records, traveling whenever we can, and savoring the little things like flowers in the kitchen, drives in our vintage VW convertible, and spontaneous date nights.

Charlie likes to say we’re “diametrically opposed” but that’s exactly what makes it fun. And it has been.

The proposal came on an ordinary Saturday that turned extraordinary. Melissa was doing yard work. Charlie called to see if she wanted to grab a drink. We went to Book Club, our regular spot, and sat in the same booth where it all started. When the champagne came out, Melissa finally asked, “What’s going on?” Charlie pulled out his great-grandmother’s pearl ring, shared the story, and said he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. Through happy tears, Melissa laughed, “I’m in sweats and I was doing yard work!” Charlie replied, “That’s life. That’s our life—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Then came the question. And the easiest “yes.”

Now we’re getting married in New Orleans, a city that captures so much of what we love: history, beauty, incredible food, and unforgettable ambiance. It’s our chance to celebrate not only our love, but the people who mean the most to us.

Laissez les bon temps rouler!