After discussing approaches to a zombie apocalypse on the dating app Bumble, Jake asked Chelsea on a date to a brewery, an easy 3-minute walk from his apartment in Pilsen. And after enjoying a beer and good conversation, they continued their first date by seeking a dart board for a game of cricket. Jake recommended Lo Rez, a brewery Chelsea would later find out was his second home. On the way, Jake took them for a stroll through the community garden where he volunteers in effort to further impress her. Somehow, that worked.

The date went well, and only ended because of Chelsea’s ever-demanding residency schedule. Over the next few months, the two would spend as much time together as said schedule would allow. In this time, they learned so much about each other; the music they love, their favorite foods & drinks, and even their hopes & dreams for the future.

They quickly became good travel companions, going first to Florida, where Jake got to meet Chelsea’s large family in its entirety all at once. He survived the interrogations with minimal trauma. After countless trips all over the US, Chelsea finally got Jake to leave the country for the first time ever, heading to the Dominican Republic where they enjoyed beachside reading, swim up bars, and Michael Jackson. Each trip left them with countless memories and jokes that they will retell each other for the rest of their lives.

Sarcasm & light-hearted bickering quickly became their love language and the next thing they knew, they were buying a condo and moving in together. They quickly found living together to be one of the best decisions they ever made, and Jake grew into his role as dog dad with ease. Gus and Artie finally have a father figure!

During a Fall trip to Mackinac Island, Jake “surprised” Chelsea at the top of Arch Rock overlooking Lake Michigan by pulling out her great-grandmother’s ring. “So…?” he asked, to which she said, “You haven’t asked me yet!” He then remembered his words and she could barely let him finish before excitedly saying yes. They shared chambongs (champagne bongs), a Mackinac staple, while celebrating their engagement.

Looking forward to the wedding and honeymoon to come, Jake and Chelsea are excited to share their journey with all of their close family and friends. They are humbled by the support and love they feel constantly from all sides. Thanks for sharing in their special day!