Melanie and Zach's journey began in high school, a time when fate brought them together through a mutual friend, despite having known of each other since elementary school. During their junior year, they took a leap of faith and started dating. Melanie, fresh out of a relationship, was nervous and wary of getting hurt again, but Zach was patient, determined to show her he was there for all the right reasons.

They bonded over late-night chats about Adam Sandler movies, intense video game sessions, and countless ice cream runs. Throughout high school, they became each other’s support system—attending homecoming together and going to every Friday night football game, no matter the weather. Rain or snow couldn’t keep Melanie away, and Zach made sure to walk her to her car every night, often leading to long conversations lasting an hour or more under the stars.

As they cheered each other on through softball and baseball seasons, they created lasting memories, including a magical prom night and watching each other walk across the graduation stage. After high school, Melanie attended Rockford University, where she graduated and discovered her passion for teaching middle school English. Meanwhile, Zach built a fulfilling career with the Park District, seizing every opportunity to grow and lead.

Fast forward through the years, Zach had a special surprise in store for Melanie. One day, he bought a ring and kept it a secret for a whole year. The unforgettable proposal took place during their Spring Break trip in 2023, on an Edwardian vessel sailing the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon. Melanie was ecstatic, her smile so bright that nothing could dim it. They returned to the States, celebrating with loved ones, still buzzing from the magic of the moment.

However, the rest of 2023 brought unexpected challenges. Melanie faced a profound loss that turned her world upside down, and for a time, she struggled to find her smile again. Yet, through it all, Zach was her steadfast rock, reassuring her that they would get through it together.

March 2024 marked a new beginning as they bought their first home, falling in love with its charm and character on their third viewing—an inside joke they cherished. In September, they expanded their family by rescuing a one-year-old Labradoodle named Winston.

As they stand on the brink of forever, Melanie and Zach look back at a love that began with friendship and blossomed into a partnership grounded in trust, support, and joy. Together, they have navigated life’s ups and downs, eagerly anticipating what the future holds. Here’s to the next chapter of their love story—forever begins now!