From the bride...
Andy and I first met when our paths crossed at my work sometime around 2018. According to Facebook, we've technically been friends since June of that year—though back then, it was more in passing through work than anything else.
Fast forward to 2020, we ran into each other again through mutual friends. But life had us on very different paths at the time. Andy was fiercely independent, focused on his career, and spending a lot of time on the road driving trucks cross-country. I had just welcomed my daughter, Emma, and was learning how to navigate being a new mom during COVID while also building a career of my own.
In 2021, we became Snapchat friends (thanks, social media!), but it wasn’t until a couple of years later that we really started talking more consistently.
By October 2023, we were talking regularly, and in January 2024, we went out to dinner—what we now call our first date.
In August 2024, Andy (half-jokingly, half-seriously) invited me to Kansas while he was there for work. To his surprise, I actually showed up. I drove to the Kansas Star Casino & Hotel, and we spent an unforgettable weekend together.
Things moved quickly in the best way. We bought our first home together in February 2025, and on Memorial Day weekend, during our housewarming party, Andy proposed—surrounded by our family and friends.
Since then, it's been all about miles traveled, memories made, and adventures shared. We've visited new states, pushed each other toward our goals, and found so much joy in building this life together.
And now, we can't wait to celebrate the next chapter—with you!
From the groom...
Good first date. Great 2nd in Kansas. Decision became easier after I realized she was my forever.
We love the local Byron area!
Sweat Bean - Coffee shop (Bride's pick - Smores!)
Sunrise - Our favorite breakfast place!
Hairy Cow Brewing Company - Great food spot that has a beautiful view of the river from outdoor seating and a fenced in play area for the kiddos! (Family pick - soft pretzel & cheesecakes for dessert, Brides pick - BBQ Chicken pizza, Grooms pick - taco pizza, Emma's pick - pepperoni and a kiddie cocktail)
Uptown Lanes / Back Alley Bar & Grill - yummy food, great rooftop, bowling fun and even axe throwing! (Bride's pick - Korean beef tacos, Grooms pick - Southwest egg rolls & pizza)
The closest to the wedding venue, offers affordable accommodations and views of the Rock River. Quaint and comfortable, but nothing fancy!
New hotel in Rockford on the rock river, which includes a super nice rooftop bar and coffee shop onsite. Offering a restaurant, the property also has a fitness center, as well as an indoor pool and a hot tub. Although in Rockford this is a very short drive to the wedding venue and is close to all the amenities of Rockford.
Bowl, eat, drink, sit out at the rooftop or axe throw!
Saturday morning farmers market in the park!
I scream, you scream we all scream for ice cream!
Paddle boat tours, with meal options, of the Rock River including black hawk statue.