Does it really take someone moving 1,000 miles away from home to find their soulmate? While the jury is still out on the validity of this theory, there's one instance that has some truth to this phenomenon.

The story of Jessica and Matt began in 2021, 3 months after Matt decided to leave his hometown of Chicago after 30 years of knowing nothing but horrible winters and only being able to play golf half of the year. They officially met 4th of July weekend 2021 (shoutout to Alec for dragging Matt to brunch that Saturday) and oddly enough Dallas had a blustery cold front of 85 degrees; so in natural Chicago fashion, Matt shows up dressed in full black attire, gold chains, and enough cologne to kill a horse. Now granted, Dallas has a combined Italian American population of 6 people, so Jess was a bit taken aback at this loud, tan figure who seemed out of place in the south. But after a couple drinks, and a wardrobe change confirming he did in-fact own some clothes with color, Jess warmed up to this loquacious Midwesterner. And behind the suave, confident, cool guy persona, Jess quickly realized that Matt was different - and the kindest guy she’d ever met.

Although at first Matt was oblivious, not knowing that Jess was interested in him, he eventually figured it out and they officially went on their first date a few weeks later at their favorite restaurant, Fachini. From that moment on both knew that this wasn't your typical first date, and that there was something special they saw in each other. They laughed all night, talked about everything, and kept thinking how lucky they were to be in that moment. (Side note: there was also a barbie box photo opp that was involved and Matt didn’t bat an eye...man, he really didn’t know what he was getting into 😉 ) Anyway, after that Matt arranged 1 date night a week for 5 weeks, at some of the best restaurants in Dallas. Jess was impressed, but also confused by this, ‘Why would a guy plan ahead to take me out? Guys never plan ahead.’ But Matt’s comforting answer is what sealed the deal, “Why wouldn’t I? Because that’s what you deserve.” After those 5 weeks, Matt and Jess went to Chicago to meet all his friends and 6 weeks after that they attended Ryan and Anne’s wedding as officially boyfriend/girlfriend.

Fast forward a little over two years later, Matt proposed to Jess at the same place they had their first date. From first meeting, to first date, to the proposal, the love they share for each other hasn't wavered. Oddly enough, Jess hasn't gotten sick of Matt yet, which is an accomplishment in and of itself.

We're incredibly grateful to share our special day with you all and look forward to a wonderful celebration!

Love,

Jess & Matt