When most people think of a Baker University romance, they think of two students kissing underneath the Grape Arbor.

But a Baker romance doesn’t always fit the norm.

Sometimes the ones in love aren’t students at all.

Rob Flaherty, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Kelly (Bach) Flaherty, assistant professor of mathematics, first met when she interviewed for a job at Baker in 2005. They started out as colleagues, but became friends while going through separate divorces. However, it wasn’t until a couple years ago that they actually started spending time together.

“I think we always loved each other,” Kelly Flaherty said.

The two legally married March 3, but didn’t have a religious ceremony until the summer.

Both of them wanted a ceremony that was low stress, laid back and an opportunity to have fun with friends. So, they ended up having the ceremony May 30 on Whidbey Island in Washington. Their family and friends got to camp, sit around bonfires and even competed in a kickball game.

“It was a lot of fun,” Kelly Flaherty said. “Everybody had a lot of fun.”

Since the two were already legally married, they had “The Blessing of a Civil Marriage,” which was officiated by Professor of Religion George Wiley.

The couple became good friends with Wiley while working on plans for the new general education program.

“Anytime people ask you to be a part of their life in a special moment, it’s a nice thing,” Wiley said.

Kelly Flaherty had Ryan Beasley, associate professor of international studies, as her maid, or man, of honor.

“I was going to wear a dress, but I couldn’t find my size,” Beasley said.

Beasley said he is really excited for them to be able to share their lives together.

“You get to know them as people, you get to watch them fall in love … and that’s special,” he said.

Since Beasley was the man of honor, Rob Flaherty decided to ask Wendi Born, associate professor of psychology, to be his best man, or woman.

“That was a really special experience for me because I love them both very much,” Born said. “It was just a great experience.”

The four of them also became very close friends while working together on the general education program.

“For the four of us to get to be all together and celebrate … it was nice,” Born said. “It’s good to have your best friends with you at the most important parts of your life.”

Kelly Flaherty’s children, Thomas, 12, and Kathryn, nine, also got to be a part of the wedding party. Rob Flaherty does not have any children, but now gets to step into the father role.

“It’s challenging at times, but it’s very rewarding,” he said.

For both Kelly and Rob Flaherty, they agree it’s not about getting married, it is more about just being with the person you love.

“It’s all about you gathering all the people you love around you,” Rob Flaherty said. “It’s all about love.”