It began with a simple head nod on a New York street corner in 2004. That brief encounter sparked a two-decade journey for actor Neil Patrick Harris and his now-husband, actor and chef David Burtka, culminating in a celebrated marriage and a family that has captured public affection.

Their story is more than just a Hollywood romance; it's a quiet but powerful testament to the evolution of family in the public eye. For many, their visibility has offered a relatable picture of gay fatherhood, shifting perceptions and challenging traditional narratives about love and parenting in the entertainment industry.

A Deliberate Path to Love and Family

Though they met in 2004, Harris and Burtka's relationship remained private for years. Harris publicly confirmed he was gay in November 2006, a decision he made to dispel rumours and live more fully. The couple made their first public appearance together at the Emmy Awards in September 2007.

Their path to marriage was a patient one, shaped by the legal landscape of the time. They became secretly engaged in 2007, but only announced it after New York passed the Marriage Equality Act in 2011. They finally married in a private ceremony in Italy in September 2014, with close friend and director Pamela Fryman officiating and Elton John performing at the reception.

Before tying the knot, they welcomed their two children, fraternal twins Harper Grace and Gideon Scott, via a surrogate mother in October 2010. Both men donated sperm, but have chosen not to find out which child is biologically theirs. "I have no interest in [finding out]," Harris has stated, emphasizing, "We are their parents and I love them implicitly."

Two Paths, One Partnership

While Harris is globally recognized for his roles as Barney Stinson in 'How I Met Your Mother' and as a Tony Award-winning stage actor, Burtka has carved out a distinct career of his own. An accomplished actor in his own right with Broadway credits, he made a significant career change to pursue his passion for food.

Burtka's professional journey includes:

• Graduating from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.
• Founding a Los Angeles-based catering company called "Gourmet M.D.".
• Authoring a cookbook, "Life is a Party".

Burtka's acting career included roles in 'The West Wing' and a recurring part on 'How I Met Your Mother' as Scooter, the former boyfriend of the character Lily.

As they mark over two decades since their first date, Harris and Burtka continue to navigate their public and private lives with a blend of humour and intention. Their enduring partnership and commitment to their family offer a forward-looking vision of what it means to build a life in the modern world, both within and beyond the spotlight.