Allie and Kevin met their sophomore year of high school when they shared an economics class. They were actually in each other's Kindergarten class, but their friendship didn't begin until high school. Soon after meeting, they realized they wanted to be more than friends and began dating. Two years later Allie and Kevin both attended the University of Illinois where they decided to go their separate ways.

After graduating college, Allie took a job in the Chicago suburbs while Kevin moved to Fort Worth, Texas. Their paths would cross again though, as by chance in 2015 Allie’s job took her on a work trip to Fort Worth. After debating whether she should let him know that she was in town, they ended up meeting for dinner and sharing tacos and margaritas at Kevin’s favorite restaurant in the area. Allie and Kevin decided to stay in touch after that, and within three months Kevin had moved back to Chicago.

It was simple to fall back into the swing of things as a couple. Their relationship only grew over the next few years. They shared many memorable moments together. Between the nights eating paella at their favorite restaurant Café Ba Ba Reeba, attending concerts and festivals, and the occasional run along the lakefront together, they both knew that their love for each other was real.

Allie and Kevin got engaged on January 27th, 2018. It was a rare, beautiful, 50 degree day in the middle of a Chicago winter, and Kevin had planned a walk through the Lincoln Park Zoo and along Lake Michigan. With two of Allie’s sisters along to take pictures (and to help Kevin find the perfect spot), she was truly surprised when Kevin dropped to his knee and popped the question.

They both feel extremely fortunate to have the love and support from their family and friends throughout their journey together. Allie and Kevin are excited to celebrate with everyone on their wedding day as they begin the next chapter of their life together.

Photos by Brittany Bekas