Joseph and Madelaine met while taking a Newman Institute class together in college in the Fall of 2022. Madelaine was in her senior year; Joseph was a sophomore. Fast forward to the following semester, and they both had classes that made them walk past each other two days a week. They would normally stop and chat for a bit, and then go their separate ways. Then, in March of 2023, the UNL Newman Institute organized a pilgrimage to Italy, and they both happened to be going.

Joseph and Madelaine got to know each other better on their trip, and were often caught lost in conversation, walking together as they took in all the beautiful sights of Italy. The last night of the trip was in Rome, and after dinner on their walk back to the hotel, Joseph asked Madelaine out to coffee once they got back to Lincoln. She happily said yes.

They went on their first date two days after coming home and continued to build their relationship. Many happy, sweet memories were made together with family and friends in the following year. Joseph proposed to Madelaine in the chapel at The Carmel of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in Agnew, NE on April 30, 2024. A busy year is flying by fast as they approach their wedding day. They are grateful for everyone who has supported them along the way and cannot wait to celebrate their marriage this May!