Podcast Summary: "The One With Barry and Rikki Safchik"
Podcast Information
- Title: For Love and Chocolate
- Hosts: Tommy and Tara Gallop
- Episode: The One With Barry and Rikki Safchik
- Release Date: March 12, 2025
Introduction: Season Wrap-Up and New Beginnings
The episode opens with hosts Tommy and Tara Gallop reflecting on the conclusion of their bustling holiday season. They discuss how events like Thanksgiving, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, and Easter bring an influx of customers eager to celebrate love with their fine Swiss chocolates.
Notable Quotes:
- Mr. Truffles (Tommy Gallop) [00:33]: "We love our little shop, but come Thanksgiving, things start to heat up in there."
- Mrs. Truffles (Tara Gallop) [01:01]: "I feel like the marathoners after they cross the finish line... it's really nice to be on the other side of it."
Highlighting Special Weddings: Barbara and Richard's Story
Tommy and Tara reminisce about Barbara and Richard's wedding, emphasizing the unique chocolate-centric elements that made their celebration unforgettable. They describe the elegant two-piece party favors, character boxes resembling Disneyland’s small-world elements, and custom floral boxes handmade in Zurich.
Notable Quotes:
- Mr. Truffles [02:18]: "We did this for my son Oliver and his beautiful wife Marissa... they ended up going with spring colors and doing these beautiful lavender and lily boxes."
- Mrs. Truffles [04:18]: "They would order this beautiful 72 piece box of assorted truffles every month."
A Sentimental Tribute: Barbara’s Heartfelt Letter
The hosts transition to a deeply emotional segment where Barbara Safchik shares a handwritten letter following her husband Richard's passing. Her letter poignantly narrates their enduring love and the rituals they cherished, particularly their shared love for chocolates.
Notable Quotes:
- Barbara [06:54]: "Richard passed away, transitioned into the Great beyond on April 6, 2023... when the chocolate runs out, you still have the memories."
- Mr. Truffles [10:21]: "Much love, Barbara."
- Barbara [10:25]: "We sure do miss them. And it just reminds me how much I love you."
Introducing Barry and Rikki Safchik: A Love Story
Tommy and Tara warmly welcome Barry and Rikki Safchik, detailing their extensive 34-year marriage. The couple shares their journey from college sweethearts to their life together, highlighting significant moments and the role of chocolates in their relationship.
Notable Quotes:
- Mrs. Truffles [15:12]: "Ricky Dale Savchick is a forever Jersey gal... they have three kids raised in LA, but all New York Ranger fans."
- Mr. Truffles [16:11]: "They were a really refreshing addition to the neighborhood."
The Beginning: A College Romance
Barry and Rikki recount their serendipitous meeting in 1984 at UMass Amherst. Rikki admits to playfully stealing Barry’s jacket as a means to spark their connection, leading to their first date at an Elton John concert. Their instant chemistry blossoms into a deep, lifelong bond.
Notable Quotes:
- Ricky Savchick [16:46]: "I came in through the bathroom window... I took back his jacket to my dorm."
- Barry Savchick [20:09]: "I could tell the moment that I knew I was gonna marry her... I said, 'I'm gonna marry you.' That was it."
Engagement and Wedding: Built on Friendship and Fun
The couple describes their whirlwind engagement during a Thanksgiving weekend in 1988, orchestrated with the help of friends and a special song dedication from a local radio DJ. Their wedding was a grand affair at the Headquarters Plaza in New Jersey, attended by 350 guests and marked by joyful celebrations.
Notable Quotes:
- Barry Savchick [35:03]: "We went back with my friends... we partied till about 6am."
- Ricky Savchick [36:03]: "We had the wedding of the century at a New Jersey landmark hotel."
Life Together: Balancing Careers and Family
Barry and Rikki discuss how they maintain a strong and loving relationship over the decades. They emphasize the importance of giving each other space, sharing laughter, enjoying food together, and supporting one another’s careers. Their mutual respect and understanding have been the cornerstone of their enduring marriage.
Notable Quotes:
- Barry Savchick [40:00]: "We give each other space... there's no one I'd rather just be across from the table with."
- Ricky Savchick [40:00]: "Nobody makes me laugh the way he makes me laugh... definitely love to eat together."
Advice for Young Couples: Embracing Humor and Flexibility
When asked for advice, Barry highlights the significance of maintaining individuality within the marriage and finding joy in everyday moments. Rikki underscores the importance of laughter, open communication, and supporting each other's passions.
Notable Quotes:
- Barry Savchick [42:03]: "We got married young but didn't have children for quite a while. It worked for us."
- Ricky Savchick [43:19]: "Learn how to let go... having a sense of humor and being open about things."
Romantic Weekend in a Bag: Celebrating Their Love
In a special segment, Barry and Rikki present their version of a "Romantic Weekend in a Bag," filled with chocolates, candles, body butter, and a commemorative fragrance celebrating the Hollywood Sign's 100th anniversary. This collection symbolizes their shared love for romance and the sweet moments they've cherished together.
Notable Quotes:
- Mr. Truffles [43:37]: "Every romantic weekend needs a really fine bottle of fancy French champagne."
- Ricky Savchick [44:48]: "This was made to commemorate the Hollywood sign's hundredth anniversary."
Closing Remarks: Celebrating Lifelong Love
The hosts express their gratitude to Barry and Rikki for sharing their heartfelt story, highlighting the couple as a beacon of enduring love. They conclude by promoting Beverly Hills Toyscher Chocolates and inviting listeners to visit their store or shop online.
Notable Quotes:
- Mr. Truffles [45:06]: "What a fun story you guys have."
- Mrs. Truffles [45:53]: "Wow, that was a wild, wonderful story, wasn't it?"
Conclusion
This episode of "For Love and Chocolate" elegantly intertwines the hosts’ passion for chocolates with heartfelt love stories, showcasing the profound connections that chocolates can symbolize in relationships. Barry and Rikki Safchik's journey offers listeners inspiration and valuable insights into maintaining a loving and lasting marriage.