When Theresa and Colin met in Malibu back in 2016, neither could have predicted that a shared salad and glass of wine would spark a love story spanning nearly a decade — and lead to a beautiful Santa Barbara wedding this weekend.
A few years ago, I joined Maria Shriver on the TODAY Show to discuss the growing trend of older women dating younger men, and Theresa and Colin were one of the inspiring couples who shared their story on air.
Watch the TODAY Show segment and read the full story here.
During the interview, Colin shared his refreshing perspective on love and partnership, saying:
“The younger generation of men see that being a good partner (means) making sure your woman’s fulfilled emotionally and mentally and physically.”
Theresa laughed as she reflected on an early conversation about their age difference, saying:
“In the beginning, I think it was definitely part of our conversation — like, ‘Are you going to trade me in for a younger model?’ And his answer was, ‘Well, you might trade me in for a younger model.’”
At the time, marriage wasn’t in the cards. Theresa was focused on travel and adventure, and Colin was building his music career. But what began as a Malibu friendship soon grew into a love built on trust, laughter, and mutual respect — the foundation that has kept them strong through life’s changing chapters.
“I think our happiness is primarily from the trust we give to each other on every level,” Theresa shared later. “We support each other, so there’s no level of insecurity. We can eat at a Michelin restaurant in Europe or be in a dive bar in Reno, and we’re equally comfortable together.”
Now, after nine years together — and with a 16-year age difference — Theresa and Colin are saying “I do” in Santa Barbara, surrounded by family and friends, before heading to Fiji for their honeymoon.
Their love story is a joyful reminder that when two people connect deeply and genuinely, age simply fades into the background.
Why Love Has No Age Limit
Theresa and Colin’s journey demonstrates that when love is rooted in shared values, open communication, and mutual respect, it transcends expectations and stereotypes.
Their story also reflects what modern dating research shows about relationships today. According to a Match Singles in America study, 81% of women say they’re open to dating someone 10 years younger, and nearly 90% of men say they’re interested in dating someone 10 years older.
These numbers prove that love truly has no age limit — and that more singles than ever are embracing meaningful connections that defy traditional norms.
Final Thoughts
Whether your path to love begins online, in person, or unexpectedly over a salad and glass of wine — remember that love doesn’t follow a timeline.
Here’s to Theresa and Colin — and to all couples proving that confidence, trust, and heart are the true markers of lasting love.
Watch the TODAY Show Segment:
More Older Women Are Dating Younger Men — Here’s Why (TODAY Show)
Read my recap and expert dating advice from the segment:
Older Women Dating Younger Men: TODAY Show Feature — CyberDatingExpert.com
Julie Spira is the Digital Matchmaker® and America's Top Online Dating Expert. She's an award-winning certified dating coach who's been helping singles find their perfect match for over three decades. Follow @JulieSpira on IG and @digitalmatchmaker on TikTok.