Our story began at Wrigley Field, over Easter Break of 2017, when Tom and Caitlin met for the first time. After their initial meeting, Tom returned to TCU and Caitlin to Saint Mary’s. Throughout the rest of spring semester, Tom and Caitlin kept in constant contact. They would text constantly and stay up late for numerous long FaceTime calls. Despite the thousands of miles that separated them, Tom and Caitlin became close, good friends.

As summer quickly approached, Tom and Caitlin talked about making plans to go on a formal date once Tom returned back to Illinois from Texas. On July 15, 2017, Tom came to Elmhurst to pick Caitlin up for their first official date at J. Alexander in Oak Brook. Tom quickly learned Caitlin had expensive taste in food when her eyes spotted the steak with mac n cheese, but that may have been what won Tom’s food lover heart over. Who knows, the jury is still out.

Over the next five years, Tom and Caitlin supported each other through college graduations, Tom’s law degree, new jobs and promotions, and family illnesses. Together they make a great team and truly bring out the best in each other.

On May 28, 2022, Tom told Caitlin that they were going to one of their favorite restaurants, Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinders, for lunch with his mom. Tom, however, had a different plan. Tom’s mom was “unfortunately” late for lunch, causing Tom to pivot and ask Caitlin for a quick walk in Lincoln Park to pass the time. While Caitlin wore shoes unfit for a long walk, she did not object to the idea. The two walked around and admired their favorite part of the city. Once the two approached the Education Pavilion, Tom told Caitlin to take a picture of the skyline. Little did Caitlin know that she was going to find Tom down on one knee, asking for her hand in marriage after she took the picture. Caitlin quickly said yes before Tom could even finish the question. Thankfully, Caitlin said “yes” twice. She was swept off her feet with the most beautiful ring and a fiancé.