Ben and Michal Lepley celebrated their marriage on October 5, 2024, at the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace in Playa Vista, California. The couple is known for their lively personalities, so it was fitting that their wedding featured a playful twist—a mini escape room challenge that Michal secretly planned to unlock their wedding rings.
During the ceremony, when the officiant requested the rings, a small drawstring bag was produced, and everyone was in for a surprise. Instead of just showing the rings, Michal revealed they were secured with a combination padlock. The groom’s reaction was a mix of shock and laughter, with Ben exclaiming, “Oh no! Aw man,” much to the amusement of their 110 guests.
“I think I would have passed out otherwise!” said Ben, reflecting on the moment. He admitted that the unexpected challenge helped lift his spirits during an emotional day.
The couple enjoys games together, so about three months before the wedding, Michal rallied the help of around 13 friends to create this unique experience. Prank coordinators dressed in costumes rose from the crowd, providing numbers for potential combinations, and Michal read aloud clues about their relationship.
“Ben was completely shocked,” Michal recalled. “He had no idea I was planning this. Though he was nervous, he managed to solve it.” She put effort into making the puzzle tied to their favorite board game, Unmatched, which holds special meaning for them as a couple.
The surprise made their wedding more memorable. Ben praised Michal’s creativity, saying, “She did such an incredible job of tying the puzzles to our relationship. I’ll always treasure that moment and the effort she put in.”
Footage of this delightful challenge quickly went viral on social media, earning over 435,000 views and 65,000 likes, with many commenters appreciating the fun they had.
The couple wanted their wedding to reflect their personalities, filled with games and interactive experiences. “We both love puzzles and spontaneous adventures,” Ben noted. “It felt great to work together, tackling challenges and feeling accomplished.”
Their bond is built on play, extending beyond their wedding day. Michal plans to create an escape room together, further showcasing their commitment to joy and connection in their lives. “In a complicated world, play helps us stay connected,” she said, emphasizing their creative outlook on life.
