Gran, 72, in love with 19-year-old who proposed after just 2 weeks

A grandmother has told of her love for her 19-year-old husband, who proposed to her after just two weeks of dating – despite being younger than her grandson.

US woman Almeda Errell, 72, fell in love with Gary Hardwick after getting close at a birthday party at popular family restaurant Chuck E Cheese, before enjoying a whirlwind romance together. They had previously told the Mail Online they first noticed each other at the funeral of Almeda’s son, before officially meeting shortly after.

After just two weeks of dating, Gary – who says he’s “mature for his age” – popped the question and they have now been married for two years, with both insisting they’re “soulmates”.

Gary explained to the publication that he was first attracted to Almeda’s blue eyes, as well as her sense of humour – saying their chemistry is amazing.

“I’ve now been happily married going on two years with my true soul mate,” Almeda reportedly added. “I knew he was the one I wanted to spend my life with. I was never intimidated by the age at all.”

The couple didn’t hang around to tie the knot, believing they were in love so there was no point in waiting. Speaking about their big day, Gary added to the publication: “The first time we made love was on our wedding night. It was an amazing experience. There was such a deep connection there. She’s a wonderful lover.”

Read more: How does an age gap affect your marriage?

Meanwhile, he insisted that he’s “never been attracted to younger women”, and while he was worried about telling his own grandma – who raised him – she accepted his choice. 

However, despite their happiness, the couple admitted some of their family had struggled to accept the marriage. One of Almeda’s sons hasn’t spoken to them since the wedding, after disagreeing with their relationship.

Her grandchildren, Aaron and Indiana Elliott, also struggled to understand the love story – with 22-year-old Aaron being three years older than his step-grandfather. However, they have since come around and see him as a friend more than a granddad.

The pair have since started their own YouTube channel and Facebook page, and even sell merchandise with their faces on – celebrating the unique romance.

Do you think age is an issue when it comes to love? Is there an age gap between you and your partner?