It's strange how unexpected life can be. A story that mirrors the beauty of a high school romance, Alex and Vanessa met in the Spring of 2021 as teachers at Wauconda High School. Through their after-school commitments in being class sponsors, and their joint involvement in Wauconda's fine arts departments, spending time with one another came naturally, and the two found common ground shortly after at...who would have guessed...Homecoming 2021.

Alex and Vanessa had their first official date on October 10th, 2021....and in full disclosure, neither of the two knew this would be their anniversary until the last few moments. The menu of the evening was a local pizzeria, "Slyce,'s" #14: EVOO, Prosciutto, garlic, and goat cheese. Alex showcased his true culinary prowess this evening by lacking an understanding that arugula serves as an additional topping...the leafy garnish sat in the refrigerator for the entirety of the evening. However, it was not the food, but the conversation and quality time spent in the evening that truly brought these two together. Alex remembers how remarkable this first date was, "Everything just felt so natural. On a first date, we all feel those awkward moments of silence where we just have no idea what to say. But, that night everything just went perfectly!" The two proceeded to watch their now-trademarked anniversary movie: Hocus Pocus. After viewing the final moments of the Sanderson sister's demise, Alex stole his first kiss and the rest is history.

Since then, the two have been inseparable, and their journeys along the way have allowed them to share in the joy of one another's company. Vanessa showed Alex the finer details of adult life: Shopping at TJ Maxx, Eating at Panera, and watching the sunset at the Ravinia while the Chicago Symphony Orchestra fills the air with astounding music.

Likewise, Alex introduced Vanessa to a more childlike and free-spirited way of looking at life. Alex was the first to take Vanessa to Midevil Times to get her knighted by the queen herself; he introduced her to anime (she never did quite catch on), and he reintroduced Vanessa to the joys of raising a mischievous kitten.

While the two certainly have their differences, through their love of commonalities (exploring, finding new culinary experiences, cooking, and of course.... obsessing over cats) Alex and Vanessa found a home in one another.

With love in the air and summer on the horizon, the two made their final dating adventure to Alaska in June of 2023 where Vanessa came home with an array of souvenirs: Coffee mugs, Christmas ornaments, and yes...a ring!

These two are more than delighted that you will be joining them in this next milestone. The love and support of all of those around them have helped create a lasting love that these two will cherish forever. So, come one and come all and celebrate the couple as they embark on their greatest journey yet.

Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk, an IHG Hotel