A Washington County couple sealed their love story Thursday in the same spot where it began: the ticket booth at Greensburg’s historic Palace Theatre.

Dorothy Vega, 70, and Joseph Gawlik, 68, both of Finleyville, exchanged vows in a self-uniting ceremony before a small gathering of family and friends. Their wedding added a personal touch to the theater’s centennial celebration, transforming a meaningful meeting place into the backdrop for their marriage.

Five years earlier, the couple had met there by chance on July 30, 2021, after a delayed showing of the Happy Together Tour, a nostalgic concert featuring music from the 1960s and ’70s. Vega said the performance would not have brought them together if it had taken place as originally scheduled.

In their vows, both spoke openly about the unexpected path that led them to each other. Vega recalled the exact spot where they first met, while Gawlik called her the person he had long hoped to find.

Their engagement also took place at the same location three years later. Vega later joked that Gawlik did not kneel because he “couldn’t get up.”

Family members joined the celebration, including Vega’s son, who surprised the couple by quietly traveling from Florida. Gawlik said it was especially meaningful to see him there alongside Vega’s other children.

After exchanging rings, the couple signed their marriage certificate while guests sang “Happy Together” by The Turtles. They said the ceremony was an honor and a fitting way to become part of the Palace Theatre’s 100-year story.

Westmoreland Cultural Trust employee Juliette Smith said weddings at the Palace are uncommon, since ceremonies are usually held elsewhere, but the organization made an exception because of the couple’s unique connection to the venue. She also presented them with a gift basket lined with fabric from the theater’s stage curtains.

The newlyweds plan to honeymoon in Siesta Key, Florida, in October.