It all started in April of 2020, when the world was shut down and everyone’s way of life was put on hold. As the days turned into weeks during the pandemic lockdowns, life indoors was becoming a mundane routine. That is until one day, Brendan stumbled across Danielle’s profile on the popular dating app, Hinge. He spent a considerable amount of time crafting a witty opening line, and to his luck, sparked an instant connection.

Danielle and Brendan continued to text for several weeks, which eventually led to a Facetime date. They talked, laughed, and shared stories over virtual cocktails for 3 hours, with neither of them wanting the conversation to end. With all doubts about each other out the window, the two arranged their first in person date. Since all bars and restaurants were still shut down, and 7 days of rain spoiling any outdoor date ideas, Danielle offered to host a wine and cheese date at her apartment. After another 4 hours of movies, chatting, and laughter, both Danielle and Brendan knew each other was the one.

Within the first months of their relationship, Danielle and Brendan booked their first trip together to The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, a 12 hour round trip drive which included hiking, breweries and a tour of the great lakes. This would be one of many vacations shared together, including a few trips to Cabo, a family vacation to Ireland, a two-week Italy trip, and many more getaways in between.

Two years later in May of 2022, Danielle and Brendan found their first apartment together in Chicago's North Center neighborhood. Soon after they were settled, they added their newest best friend Winston, an English Cocker Spaniel, to their lives. They knew that this life they were building together was special.

Then on their 3-year anniversary, Brendan came home from work and re-created their first date. He put on the same movie (The Blind Side) and opened the same bottle of wine they shared together the first time they met in Danielle’s apartment. To top the evening off, Brendan surprised Danielle on their balcony by getting down on one knee. The night was full of excitement and celebration, and ended with a meal at the restaurant where they had their first “official” sit down dinner date, Topo Gigio.

We are so excited to continue the celebrations and make more memories together on 5/31/25 with our closest friends and families!