Connor and Michelle first met during their college senior year spring break trip to Las Vegas. Although they went with separate groups, their paths crossed a few times because of mutual friends. It wasn’t until they returned back to Ohio State’s campus a few weeks later that Connor asked for her number when they ran into each other at a local bar. Connor asked Michelle out on their first date at Katzingers Deli in German Village for lunch and then to Graeters for ice cream. They instantly connected over their love for traveling, Ohio State football and trying new food/restaurants.

Connor and Michelle were long distance for 3 years. When they met at the end of college, their post-grad plans were already set. Connor was starting a new job in Chicago and Michelle was beginning her graduate program in Louisville. However, against all odds, they were determined to make it work. Every month took extensive planning to fit a growing relationship into their busy, individual lives. It consisted of FaceTime dinner dates, random snapchats and many hours traveling back and forth for weekend getaways. After Michelle graduated in 2021, they decided to make the big decision of moving in together in Chicago and begin a life side by side.

Connor and Michelle planned a two week trip to Greece. A few days into their vacation, they arrived in Santorini and spent the day hiking around the island. Later that evening they had dinner reservations, but Connor had a surprise planned for beforehand. With the help from a fake email that had said their reservation had been pushed back, Connor convinced Michelle to take a short walk to Skaros Rock near the restaurant to enjoy the sunset views while they waited. That’s when Connor got down on one knee and asked Michelle to spend forever with him. Spoiler: she said yes! He even got it captured on camera with a secret photographer! The proposal was followed by a photoshoot, FaceTiming family members and finally going to the restaurant. Connor planned a surprise of a lifetime.