It all started like any ordinary happy hour—open bar, post-work chatter, and a quick trip to grab one last drink before the tab closed. But as I stood there, caught off guard that the free drinks had stopped flowing, my eyes landed on a handsome stranger chatting effortlessly with the bartender. Before I could retreat awkwardly, two Dark and Stormies appeared in front of us—one for me, one for him. That stranger was Carl, and with one smile and one perfectly timed cocktail, something sparked that I didn’t see coming. We introduced ourselves, Carl and Angelina, and from there, the night blurred into something magical. When he asked for a ride home (a bold move I now know was 100% unnecessary), I didn’t hesitate. It wasn’t just his charm or the effortless conversation—it was the feeling that something real was beginning. We didn’t wait long to see each other again. Our next happy hour at Bar Louie sealed the deal. Carl showed up in a full suit, and my heart skipped a beat. I knew then: this was not someone I was going to let slip away. Since that night, Carl has been my partner, my support system, and the love of my life. He makes me feel seen, safe, and completely cherished. Our story has been filled with laughter, adventure, and more happy hours than we can count—but none more important than the forever we’re about to begin. I love you, Carl R. Biggs. Here’s to a lifetime of love, surprises, and cocktails we never forget.

It all started on a Thursday night with big plans, wings, and an NFL game. I was supposed to meet my buddy Eric at Buffalo Wild Wings in Crystal City to talk about our upcoming boys’ trip to Europe. But in classic Eric fashion, he bailed last minute—caught up in an argument with his girlfriend. With my evening suddenly wide open (and my stomach still committed to game night), I wandered over to Highline RxR, where I knew the bartender. The place was slammed with work happy hours, but by some miracle, I snagged a seat at the bar to catch the Vikings game—though who they were playing, I honestly couldn’t tell you now. Somewhere in the second half, I started noticing this person bumping into my back every 15 minutes to grab drinks for her coworkers. By the third quarter, curiosity got the best of me, and I turned around—only to be met with the eyes (and smile) of a stunning woman. We exchanged a few words before she disappeared into the crowd again, drinks in hand. But by the fourth quarter, she returned—her coworkers had left, and she took the seat next to me. We spent the rest of the game in conversation so good, I completely forgot there was even football on. As the night wound down, I realized I didn’t have her number. So, naturally, I did the only logical thing: asked her for a ride home… to an apartment I easily could have walked to. Thankfully, she played along, dropped me off, and we finally exchanged numbers. That night may have started with a football game and a no-show friend, but it ended with me meeting the love of my life.