Love often blossoms in the most unexpected places, and for Tamsen Fadal and Mark Titus, their journey to marriage was a testament to resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to one another. Their story, marked by personal tragedies and unwavering support, is an inspiring tale of how love can overcome the greatest of obstacles.
The Unlikely Beginning
Mark Titus, a professional matchmaker and dating coach in New York, is no stranger to the intricacies of love and relationships. But when he first met Tamsen Fadal, a reporter for WCBS-TV in New York, he was taken by surprise. On their first date, Mark confidently told Tamsen that she would eventually fall in love with him—a bold prediction for a woman who was skeptical of love.
Tamsen, then 36, had built a successful career and had little faith in love at first sight. In fact, she almost didn’t agree to that first date. “I didn’t believe in love at first sight. I barely believed in love,” she recalled. But Mark was different, and he was determined to prove her wrong.
A Match Made in Determination
Their story began in October 2004 when Mark first noticed Tamsen at a gym in Philadelphia, where she was working at KYW-TV. He was instantly captivated by her. However, Tamsen was focused solely on her career, even going so far as to sell most of her belongings to be ready to move to New York if an opportunity arose. At the time, Mark didn’t fit into her plans.
Despite this, Mark’s persistence never wavered. He believed that Tamsen’s reluctance to commit was rooted in fear—fear of getting close to someone and then losing them, a fear that was mutual. Both Mark and Tamsen had lost their mothers to cancer when they were 13 years old, a shared pain that eventually brought them closer together.
Overcoming the Past
For Tamsen, her mother’s death had left a deep scar. “I had a hard time getting close to people because I was afraid they were going to leave me,” she admitted. Mark, who had also endured the pain of losing his mother, understood this fear all too well. He spoke of his mother with reverence, something that touched Tamsen deeply. “Women listen to how men talk about their mothers,” she said, finding herself increasingly drawn to him.
Despite her growing feelings, Tamsen remained cautious. She had always been strong in her career but was unsure about her personal life. Mark, however, was confident enough for both of them. His persistence was relentless—he asked her out daily, bought her flowers and jewelry, and even drove her from Philadelphia to New York for her 3 a.m. shifts at WCBS.
The Turning Point
Mark’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Despite her initial reservations, Tamsen began to see a future with him. Mark’s gung-ho approach to life, shaped by his own experiences and losses, made him the ideal partner for Tamsen. “My mom died in my arms, and if I could get through that, then nothing can hurt me,” Mark said, highlighting his resilience.
A significant moment in their relationship came when Mark, who had nearly died in a motorcycle accident the year before meeting Tamsen, vowed to turn his life around after a painful divorce. He was open about his past and the mistakes he had made. Tamsen appreciated his honesty and believed that people could change, especially when faced with traumatic experiences.
A Love Worth Fighting For
As their relationship deepened, Tamsen realized that she could maintain her independence while also being with Mark. “Matt helped me to realize I could have my independence and also have him,” she said. Their love was not about losing oneself but rather about supporting each other’s dreams and aspirations.
Mark, too, admired Tamsen’s drive and determination. “I love her dreams and how she pursues them,” he said. His support was unwavering, and he continued to drive her to work at 3 a.m., every day, showcasing his commitment to their relationship.
The Wedding Day
On October 14, surrounded by 89 wedding guests, Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal exchanged vows at the iconic Tavern on the Green in New York. The ceremony was a perfect blend of elegance and sentimentality. Tamsen wore a strapless charmeuse gown and matching ballroom gloves designed by Tanaj Perry, a makeup artist at WCBS. As she walked down the aisle, the guests were captivated by the love that radiated from the couple.
The ceremony was officiated by Ken Rosato, a priest of the Catholic Apostolic Church in North America and an anchor on WABC-TV. The couple’s vows were a reflection of their journey together—one filled with challenges, growth, and an unbreakable bond. After the ceremony, Tamsen’s father, James Fadal, offered a heartfelt toast, wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness and love.
Conclusion
The love story of Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal is a powerful reminder that love is not always easy, but it is always worth fighting for. Their journey to marriage was not without its challenges, but their commitment to each other and their willingness to overcome their fears made their love story truly inspiring. For anyone who doubts the power of love, Mark and Tamsen’s story is a testament to the fact that true love can conquer all.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal meet?
Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal first met in October 2004 at a gym in Philadelphia, where Tamsen was working at KYW-TV. Mark was immediately captivated by her, and despite her initial reluctance, he pursued her persistently.
2. What challenges did Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal face in their relationship?
Both Mark and Tamsen had lost their mothers to cancer at a young age, which made them cautious about getting close to others. Their shared experiences of loss and fear of commitment were significant challenges they had to overcome.
3. How did Mark Titus support Tamsen Fadal in her career?
Mark Titus was incredibly supportive of Tamsen’s career. He would drive her from Philadelphia to New York for her 3 a.m. shifts at WCBS, showing his commitment and dedication to her success.
4. What was significant about Mark Titus’s past?
Mark Titus had gone through a painful divorce and a near-fatal motorcycle accident before meeting Tamsen. These experiences shaped his outlook on life and made him determined to turn his life around.
5. Where did Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal get married?
Mark Titus and Tamsen Fadal got married on October 14 at Tavern on the Green in New York, surrounded by family and friends. The ceremony was officiated by Ken Rosato and was a beautiful celebration of their love.