Jenn and Matt were friends throughout their college years, but began dating near the end of their senior year at the University of Illinois. Some may say it was love at first site- in the beer garden of Matt's favorite Champaign bar, Kams.

Jenn and Matt bonded over their love for the Cubs (and even witnessed the World Series win together-a sign!), Michigan Football, and their Irish heritage. From barn dances to formals, the two spent much of their social life together throughout their final year of college.

By the end of the school year, the two made it official. Matt asking Jenn to be his girlfriend on their first date- stranded outside of a Tennessee Walmart with a $5 bucket of chicken, and a bottle of prosecco, waiting for their car that had unfortunately suffered a flat tire ascending the Smokey Mountains. It was a true test of patience for the two of them, in which they prevailed together.

After graduation, the two spent much of their time enjoying the post-graduate life in Chicago. Matt completed the fire academy and paramedic school right after college, while Jenn was enjoying her daily ride to work on the far South Side of Chicago via the CTA Red Line.

A few years later, the two moved in together during Covid (yikes!) on Southport and Belmont in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood- their first home together. Their patience was tested once more, as Matt experienced the life of Jenn remote teaching every day, and Jenn quickly learned to show Matt how to keep the apartment clean to her liking.

Matt proposed to Jenn in August 2022. They had enjoyed brunch at their favorite restaurant, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! Then, Matt took Jenn to the Lincoln Park Zoo where he proposed, and their families were there waiting to celebrate. Afterward, they went to their favorite Chicago bar, Galway Arms, and celebrated with all of their family and friends.

Wedding Day