During their seventh anniversary getaway in Gatlinburg, Victoria Puyol and Joshua Card encountered an unexpected visitor in a tea shop: a bear. This surprising event, captured on video, took place at The Spice & Tea Exchange.

Unexpected Encounter

As the couple entered the shop, Card spotted a bear by the entrance. Initially, Puyol didn’t realize the situation, but soon noticed the bear as it ventured inside. Despite being in a well-populated area, the bear’s presence was unchecked.

The bear explored the inventory, focusing on a sweet-tea blend and examining tea diffusers.

The store clerk advised Puyol and Card to move behind the register, providing an escape route. Despite efforts, like a neighboring store employee using an air horn, the bear remained unfazed.

Documenting the Moment

Card recorded the bear’s movements. He candidly spoke to the bear as it jumped onto the counter, prompting him to step back.

Puyol remembered her disbelief at Card’s casual demeanor, noting that while he spoke as if to a puppy, it was indeed a wild bear.

Reactions to the Incident

Card, a military veteran with emergency experience, felt the situation was unpredictable, but not an emergency. Reflecting on the bear’s behavior, he noted its curiosity but absence of aggression.

Puyol felt shock rather than fear, emphasizing the remarkable proximity of the wild animal during their trip.

An Unforgettable Anniversary

Puyol’s previous wishes to see a bear were ironically fulfilled in a much closer encounter than anticipated. The couple learned from store employees that the bear had visited earlier that week.

The bear eventually left the shop, leaving an indelible memory for the couple. The entire episode lasted about 10 to 15 minutes.

Puyol and Card’s trip was marked by this unusual event, adding a unique highlight to their anniversary.