Greger and Michelle first met in culinary school through a special needs secondary program called Arc Broward—right around the time the world was adjusting to COVID. Since in-person classes weren’t possible, they spent most of their time connecting over FaceTime. Those long conversations are where their friendship—and eventually, their relationship—began to blossom.

Their journey together officially started in early 2021. When Greger first met Michelle’s father, he was immediately handed a cigar before even getting a “hello.” Not knowing how to smoke one, Greger had a bit of a rough start—but for those wondering, it was a Perdomo Habano Connecticut Epicure. Over the next few years, Greger and his future father-in-law bonded over cigars, whiskey, and long talks about life, work, and family.

As Greger says:

“Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses. Surround yourself with people who lift you up—not those who put your goals down.”