Ryann & Mario: A Love Story

(Against All Odds... Oh and That Shirt)

Once upon a time, in the wild world of online dating, Ryann (from the OKC area) swiped right (or whatever you do on Facebook Dating) and matched with Mario—a charming guy from Tulsa -almost 2hrs away-and with a questionable taste in shirts. They texted and called for a couple of weeks, proving they could, at the very least, tolerate each other’s voices.

Mario, ever the adventurer, was on a road trip to New Mexico and decided, “Hey, why not squeeze in a first date on my way through OKC?” Romantic, right? Ryann, being the responsible one, showed up on time. Mario, true to form, was fashionably late—about 15 minutes, but long enough for Ryann to start plotting her exit strategy.

Then he arrived. In the shirt. A shirt that Ryann still side-eyes to this day. But alas, it had started to rain, and despite the poor wardrobe choice, Ryann, being the generous soul she is, shared her umbrella with him. Mario, apparently a sucker for small romantic gestures, thought this was the sweetest thing ever.

Inside All About Cha, over quirky coffee drinks, they realized they had more in common than just being two hopeless souls navigating the dating app jungle. They both loved road trips, history, alot of the same tv shows, unique coffee shops, and, oddly enough, were born the same year—just eight months apart, on the 17th of their respective months. (Yes, Ryann is older. Yes, she will remind him forever.)

The date seemed to fly by and after about 90 minutes, Mario continued his road trip and Ryann continued on with her day. It was on that drive to New Mexico that Mario realized he really wanted to see Ryann again. The very next day, proving that he wasn’t just some guy passing through, he texted Ryann asking if she was up for a second date after he returned from his road trip.

He proceeded to text her asking if she liked bowling -(secretly thinking she probably didn’t - her profile pic kind of made him think she wasn’t someone who was comfortable wearing bowling shoes lol) it just so happened that bowling was an activity she really enjoyed!.

So bowling they went!

And it was a great time, especially for Ryann who beat Mario in not just one, but two rounds.

However, this loss did not dissuade Mario from asking for the first kiss. Ryann thought “well, I did just beat him -twice- I guess I should cut him some slack”

Now if you ask Mario and Ryann there’s a little bit of a variation of the story on whether the kiss was at Mario’s car or Ryann’s - they can’t seem to agree on where exactly the kiss took place - however, all that matters is that it was memorable.

After the kiss, they both parted ways but not before Mario hinted on a third date -maybe one a little less competitive. Lol Ryann accepted.

By the end of the fourth date, Mario, who pulled out all stops with a city tour featuring historical landmarks, a lovely dinner, followed by a romantic walk by the water;—asked Ryann if she wanted to go steady. Ryann, in classic fashion, responded with something along the lines of “I will need to check my schedule.” (Translation: I’m not sure I want to commit…I’m pretty busy…I have kids…like half a dozen….he doesn’t know what he’s getting into…eeek )

Spoiler alert:

She eventually committed.

Because, despite her excuses as to why it wouldn’t work, Mario was persistent. He knew sooner than she did that this was something real, and he kept proving it—over and over that he wasn’t going anywhere. He was patient, kind and supportive. He still is.

Through all of life’s roller coasters- up’s and down’s - ins and outs -their love stands strong.

And I am sure you aren’t surprised to hear who said the 3 magic words first: It was Mario!!

Ryann, taking her sweet time, eventually said it back—but only after realizing Mario really meant it and wasn’t going anywhere.

Fast forward four years, and here they are—still sharing road trips any chance they get, unique coffee shops, and debates over whether Mario’s shirt should be burned. Their love has only grown, fueled by their mutual appreciation for Psych, Supernatural, Big Bang Theory and each other’s quirks, including that shirt. You may be happy to hear that Mario's taste in shirts has improved.

All laughs aside - the couples love story continues to last year when Mario conspired to surprise Ryann with a proposal last summer - and through a series of events - he succeeded in surprising her and she said yes... with no hesitations!

The end.

Or rather: Here is to their new beginning.

Mario and Ryann are so honored and excited to celebrate their new beginning with you all!