Canadian Love Map

This story belongs to Tess Monias and Payden Partaker, of Kikino, Alberta.

Fathers can play a big role in shaping the people we will become. For Tess and Payden, both of their fathers instilled in them an undying love for two Alberta NHL teams: the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames, respectively. Although the two teams and their fans are fierce rivals, the love between these two young people burned even stronger.

Before he passed, Payden went to Tess' father to ask for his blessing to marry her. The older man was overjoyed, but knew this wasn't a wedding he'd have the privilege of attending in person, and that his time on earth was short. The two men agreed to a simple pact, but with one small caveat: Payden would wait a year to allow Tess to grieve before popping the question, but would push the timeline forward if her father's spirit sent him a clear sign.

A few weeks later, he'd get his sign after winning a raffle for two tickets to an upcoming NHL game: Edmonton vs. Calgary. Now working on a shortened timeline, Payden must scramble to pull together an ambitious proposal that will pay respect to both his and Tess' late fathers. It's a story that united even the fiercest hockey rivals for a brief moment of beauty and love.

For more information and pictures of Tessa's incredible beadwork, visit https://www.facebook.com/tessascreeations/

Presented by Charm Diamond Centres

Hosted by Nancy Regan

Produced by Podstarter

Do you have a great love story? You could be the next guest on the Canadian Love Map! Apply here!

What is Canadian Love Map?

Charm Diamond Centres proudly presents The Canadian Love Map.

This podcast is on a mission to tell Canada’s love stories. Everyday stories of discovery, loss, curiosity, and love. Real people overcoming differences, distance, and doubt. Stories that are rich in character, colourful in setting, raw in honesty and inspiring in their complexity.

Love isn’t a straight line. It’s complex. It’s a journey. And everyone needs a good love story.

Join author, former news anchor, and lifelong storyteller Nancy Regan as she shares the extraordinary love stories from across Canada.