Photo: christina perez/instagram
Introduced through mutual friends, Flay, 57, and Pérez, 40, a writer and creative director at cannabis company Miss Grass, began dating about a year ago and went public with their relationship in November at the Breeders' Cup World Championship, whereFlay’s horse Pizza Bianca finished first.
“She’s so lovely. I’m really happy to have met her,” gushes Flay, who has been busy producingThrowdown With Michael Symon,airing now on Food Network. “My life is so crazy hectic, and she’s always the light at the end of the day for me.”
Bill Denver/CSM/Sipa USA
Their mutual admiration is evident, says a friend of the couple. “She was drawn to his sense of humor, kindness, confidence, and enthusiasm,” the source tells PEOPLE. “He’s such a gentleman with her.”
The two plan to spend the holidays together. “I might cook some Puerto Rican food on Christmas Day,” says Flay. “She’s half Puerto Rican and I love those flavors and that cuisine, so I want to make sure she feels represented at Christmas.”
On non-holidays, Pérez is especially fond of Flay’s paella recipe, says the friend of the couple. “It reminds her of her family,” says the source.
Flay’s own family, daughter Sophie, 25, from the second of his three marriages, is thrilled to see her dad so in love.
“Sophie is a giant fan of Christina and vice versa,” says Flay. “The two most important girls in my life like each other and have a good relationship—there’s nothing better for me.”
source: people.com
