Real Brides: Laura

I love the way I met my husband and always have so much fun telling others about it! I had recently gotten out of a serious relationship and decided to get a puppy to bring some happiness back into my life. A few weeks after welcoming Bailey—an 8-week-old mini Bernese Mountain Dog—into my home in downtown Charleston, I walked him down the street past the fire station. That’s when I spotted a cute firefighter standing out front. He immediately started asking about Bailey, and the conversation flowed naturally.

I told him that my parents were supposed to be flying into town, but their flight got delayed, so I asked if he’d be willing to give us a tour of the station later that week. (My dad is a fire chief in Rhode Island.) Of course, he said yes.

Three days later, I showed up at the fire station with my parents (and Bailey, of course) and requested that the tour be given by the cute guy I’d just met. The tour went great, and later that evening, my dad told my mom, “Laura will end up dating that boy.”

Time went by, and I made sure to walk Bailey past the fire station multiple times a day, hoping to see him and exchange numbers. Eventually, I did just that, and we went on our first date a few days later. The rest is history.

September 28th, 2021, is a day I’ll never forget. I’m so blessed that God brought Bailey into my life, who ultimately led me to the love of my life, Ryan Joseph Criscio—at a time I least expected but needed it the most. I come from a family of firefighters (my grandfather, dad, and brother), so it’s only fitting that I found my soulmate in the same profession. Ryan officially asked me to be his girlfriend on January 27th, 2022, and got down on one knee on April 17th, 2024.

It’s funny—I knew “Paulina” was the one for me before I even saw it in person or tried it on! I found Val Stefani online and immediately fell in love with all her dresses, but especially Paulina (and possibly Raya). Working with the wonderful Grace Burch at Fancy’s Bridal in Lake City, South Carolina, she made my dreams come true by getting both dresses shipped in. From the moment I put Paulina on—after trying on many other dresses at three different stores—I couldn’t imagine myself getting married in any other gown! I love the intricate details, the beautiful back and chapel train, and especially the detachable cathedral train for that dramatic walk down the aisle. And ironically, my dad’s name is Paul—and I said “yes to the dress” on his birthday! It truly felt like fate. 

Photo Credits: Christina Baird Photography

Bridal Store: Fancy’s Bridal