It all techincally started at St. Ambrose University, though at the time, we were just two college kids crossing paths. It wasn’t until years later, at a mutual friend’s birthday party in Miami (thanks, Cole), that fate finally decided to do its thing. From the moment we reconnected, everything just clicked. Ben was still the same funny, sweet guy I remembered, but there was something undeniably different this time around. Two weeks later, on a trip to Davenport, our friend Ashley (now a bridesmaid-shoutout) decided that we were officially meant to be. We didn't argue, just went with the flow.

Our relationship began as semi-long-distance, but by November 2021, I had convinced Ben to move into my Chicago apartment, and from there the city became the perfect place for us to kickstart for our life together. We spent those years exploring so many concerts, comedy shows, restaurants, and arcades,truly making the most of every moment. In January 2023, we added Murphy, our Bernese mountain dog, to the mix. He quickly became the star of the show and the source of endless drama(and fur) in our lives. Shortly after, we found our dream home in Tinley Park, which we knew the second we laid eyes on it that it was the perfect place to build a life together.

That spring, I graduated from law school, passed the bar, and officially became an attorney—a milestone I couldn’t have achieved without Ben’s endless encouragement (and ability to supply snacks during late-night study sessions). Meanwhile, Ben was busy crushing his own career goals, earning certifications and moving up in his career, showing the same drive and dedication I fell in love with. Together, we celebrated every win as a team & usually with a glass of champagne on deck. IYKYK.

Then, on June 29, 2024, Ben planned the most beautiful birthday weekend for me in Michigan. He pulled out all the stops—a cute Airbnb, beaches, hiking, shopping, delicious food, and finally, Round Barn Winery. On a beautiful hilltop, he got down on one knee with a sneaky photographer capturing it all. That day, we marked the beginning of our next chapter of love, laughter, and endless possibilities for our future together.

I'm so blessed to have found the love of my life in a man like Ben. I will follow him anywhere, and I cannot wait to finally meet him at the altar on October 18, 2025.

-M