Patrick Drewes
Tampa, Florida
FATHER OF THE BRIDE
Pat is, by definition, the perfect mix of cool and intimidating—the kind of dad who could strike fear into your teenage self while simultaneously making everyone feel welcome with his warmth and wit. His love story with Deb has an uncanny resemblance to Sarah and Joe’s, right down to their first date happening around the same time of year (a fun fact courtesy of Deb’s sister, Pamela).
Before fatherhood, Pat lived a life that practically wrote itself into legend—years spent following the Grateful Dead, almost making it to Woodstock (but ultimately missing it), and then somehow transforming into a government agent, catching the very types of characters he once idolized. That unique journey made him the kind of dad who could balance empathy, encouragement, and accountability—essential qualities when raising three spirited kids.
Sarah’s childhood is filled with memories of dancing in the living room to Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell, waking up to Christmas mornings made magical by reindeer footprints crafted from fireplace soot, and summers spent swimming in the Gulf of Mexico (or America…however you celebrate)—sometimes with stingrays gliding just beneath them. Through every soccer game, track meet, and milestone at Pasco High, Pat was there, cheering her on from the stands.
Before fatherhood, Pat lived a life that practically wrote itself into legend—years spent following the Grateful Dead, almost making it to Woodstock (but ultimately missing it), and then somehow transforming into a government agent, catching the very types of characters he once idolized. That unique journey made him the kind of dad who could balance empathy, encouragement, and accountability—essential qualities when raising three spirited kids.
Sarah’s childhood is filled with memories of dancing in the living room to Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell, waking up to Christmas mornings made magical by reindeer footprints crafted from fireplace soot, and summers spent swimming in the Gulf of Mexico (or America…however you celebrate)—sometimes with stingrays gliding just beneath them. Through every soccer game, track meet, and milestone at Pasco High, Pat was there, cheering her on from the stands.
As Sarah grew up, she and Pat found common ground in their love for music, good company, and a great time. Of course, there were some rocky moments—mostly when Sarah thought she could outsmart a seasoned private investigator during her rebellious teenage years (spoiler: she could not). But over time, she realized that every bit of his discipline and tough love came from one place—his unwavering devotion to his family.
What started as a parent-child relationship has evolved into an unbreakable friendship. They still dance in the living room to Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell (which will undoubtedly be seen at the wedding), their political debates have turned into thoughtful conversations, and late-night phone calls about sports, looming hurricanes, and their next concert are a weekly ritual. Pat will always be Sarah’s first true love, and it’s because of his influence that she found a man as fun, smart, strong, and loving as Joe.
What started as a parent-child relationship has evolved into an unbreakable friendship. They still dance in the living room to Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell (which will undoubtedly be seen at the wedding), their political debates have turned into thoughtful conversations, and late-night phone calls about sports, looming hurricanes, and their next concert are a weekly ritual. Pat will always be Sarah’s first true love, and it’s because of his influence that she found a man as fun, smart, strong, and loving as Joe.