Our first "official" date happened at Panera, where two sandwiches turned into hours of non-stop conversation. We talked until our drinks needed refilling (twice!) and suddenly realized how easy it was to be together. This kickstarted our famous "study sessions" that mysteriously involved less and less actual studying as time went on.

For years, we conquered the 140 miles between UIC in Chicago (Alan) and Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo (Jess). Weekend road trips, late-night phone calls that ended with one of us falling asleep, and coordinating schedules became our normal. We've memorized every rest stop on I-94 and learned that distance is just a number when you've found your person.

Still debated to this day: Alan swears he said those three magic words first, while Jess conveniently claims her selective hearing kicked in at that exact moment. The jury's still out, but the feeling was definitely mutual—even if the memory isn't!

Hawaii became our first getaway together! Technically we were with family, but we snuck away for sunset beach walks, underwater adventures, and stargazing talks about the future. We discovered we travel perfectly together... even if one of us (no names mentioned) packs enough clothes for a month when the trip is only four days long. 🧳👀

On May 17, 2023, with the Hawaiian waves as witnesses at beautiful Kailua Beach, Alan dropped to one knee and asked THE question! It was the easiest “yes” ever. Our sneaky friends Josh and Christine were hiding in a tree capturing every smile and Christine’s tears. We're pretty sure this was also the historic moment when Jess's dad finally upgraded Alan from "Jess's friend" to "future son-in-law."

Ten years, countless road trips, late-night talks, pizza debates, and inside jokes later... we're tying the knot! From tennis rivals to life partners, we couldn't be more excited to celebrate this next chapter with all of you at Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe. Get ready to party—this is just the beginning! 💕