“For a long time, I would play blackjack at Diana’s tables at Hard Rock,” says Rick Scott. Diana was a blackjack dealer, and he was one of her regulars for 7 years. Through the course of that time, they got to know each other. “We just talked about our kids and our lives,” recalls Rick, “and we got along.”

One day, Diana announced the unexpected. “I am leaving Hard Rock to open a Pilates studio.”

“Pilates?” Ricked asked. “What is that?”

Diana tried to explain it to him. Then she left. “I thought I would never see her again,” says Rick. “I wished her luck.”

Three years later, Rick found himself divorced and happened to see Diana on a dating app. “We’ve been going out ever since,” he smiles.” Four months ago, they got engaged and are eager to start the next chapter of their lives together. 

Rick grew up in Texas but has spent much of his life in Florida, building a 30-year career in fire protection and owning his own business for 25 years before selling it four years ago. Now, this is a second career for him, combining entrepreneurship with community involvement.

Diana, originally from Honduras, came to the U.S. in 1999 and is bilingual, still mastering English. She has been passionate about Pilates for 15 years, opening her first boutique studio in Plant City, Florida, 12 years ago. Her love for fitness and helping people led her and Rick to BODYBAR. “This is an incredible opportunity for Diana and I to teach our kids to dream big and go for it,” says Rick. 

Pilates is a popular workout that is catching on here in St. Pete. It’s a versatile workout and can be tailored to all fitness levels. “People of all ages and abilities can do it,” Diana explains. Pilates helps you challenge your body safely and effectively.

In their free time, Rick and Diana love to travel. Where do they go? They’ve explored the Maldives, Dubai, Spain, Greece and Hawaii (where they got engaged!) and delight in experiencing new cultures and cuisines. “Every country is my favorite,” says Diana. 

Rick, an avid cook, enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, while the pair regularly check out new restaurants in the St. Petersburg area. Sundays are for brunch and rest at home as well as recharging for the busy week ahead.

Rick has called Venetian Isles home for four years. He loves being on the water and the sense of community. “The neighbors are kind and gracious,” he says. “People help each other, especially during hurricanes. It’s a great mix of older couples and younger families.”

The couple shares their home with Nash, a 21-pound long-haired French Bulldog, and Coco, a 65-pound Labradoodle. “Nash is the boss,” Rick laughs. “She bullies him all the time. But they love each other.”

Family is central to their lives. Between them, they have five children, and they make time to connect with each one, whether in Florida or while traveling for family visits. Diana has two daughters. “One is the Studio Manager of BODYBAR North St. Pete,” she shares.

Rick and Diana’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected paths (like meeting at a blackjack table or reconnecting years later) can lead to the most meaningful adventures. We wish them the best in all their future endeavors!