Janelle & Nico

It all started on November 28, 2018, at The RIU Republic in Punta Cana. What was supposed to be a girls’ trip quickly took a romantic turn — you know how those things go. That’s where Janelle met Nico, and from that moment on, the two were inseparable. Most of that vacation was spent getting to know each other, making memories, and unintentionally writing the first chapter of their love story.

What followed was a long-distance relationship filled with video calls, airport reunions, and countdowns to their next adventure. A year later, to celebrate their anniversary, they attended Janelle’s cousin’s wedding in Jamaica in November 2019 — where, in true rom-com fashion, Janelle caught the bouquet. (Foreshadowing, anyone?)

They knew they wanted to take the next step, but like many love stories of this era, COVID-19 had other plans. Despite the challenges, their bond only grew stronger. Love found a way.

In 2021, Nico got down on one knee — and Janelle said YES!

Fast forward to 2024, and Nico made the move to Chicago, where they began their next adventure side by side. Naturally, they decided to tie the knot in the very place it all began — Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Full circle, indeed.

Now, surrounded by family and friends, they can’t wait to celebrate their forever where it all started.

Photos