Barry and Della were married in 2016, beginning a life together rooted in faith, laughter, and love. What started as a simple connection grew into a lasting partnership, leading them to build a joyful family and a future they once weren’t sure they’d find. Their story is a reminder that sometimes the right person arrives right on time.
How did you meet? What was your first date like?
We met on Christian Mingle. On our first date, we knew we were right for each other. We both had not had the greatest experiences on other dating sites and nearly gave up, but then we wondered why we hadn’t tried Christian Mingle, considering we were both Christians. It was really ironic (maybe not) that both of our steps were nearly identical.
Describe the moment you knew it was true love!
Our second date. On the first date, you’re just making small talk because you’re not sure if it’s going anywhere. On the second date, you know they’re at least interested. I believe my lack of fashion sense helped break the ice. As she went to take her seat, I said, “Let me help you with your top.” I thought it was a jacket, but it was some sort of fancy shirt that I mistook for one. She said if I did that, she was afraid they might ask us to leave. We both just laughed. The ice had been broken, and the nerves settled.
What can you tell us about the proposal?
We were at a party that had karaoke, so I asked the DJ if I could borrow his mic. I had her sit in front of everyone and sang her “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel. She already knew me well by then and knew me to be spontaneous and a little quirky, so she didn’t expect anything more than me being sweet. But right after the song, I went down on one knee and proposed to her—right in front of the party, with me wearing lederhosen. (It was an Oktoberfest party.)
What can you tell us about the wedding?
It was very simple but very sweet. Our pastor (who had also been counseling us in mature relationships) married us along with our closest family. My daughter lives in CT and was unable to attend, but she was included in the family photos via FaceTime.
What advice would you give other Christian Mingle members who are still looking for love?
Nothing happens that isn’t God-planned, but it may require participation. You have nothing to lose and the world to gain. My wife and I couldn’t be happier, and all it took was a small nudge. When we first met, we had no married children. Now all of our children are married, and we have three precious grandchildren—all because of a decision I made on my way to bowling. I was able to experience all of this together with a wife I once thought wasn’t out there.
Editorial Team is a contributor to Christian Mingle. See more of Editorial Team's articles here.