Antonio and Stephanie first met at a small New Year’s Eve party in 2020, during the height of a the pandemic. They stayed close friends for two years, sharing laughs, memories, and a bond that only grew stronger with time.

Then, in 2022, while they were out one night hanging out in Downtown St. Charles, a few friends had called them out and asked: “Are you guys into each other or what?”

Faced with the choice between staying great friends or taking a leap into something deeper, they chose to explore the what if.

Over three years later, on September 21, 2024 — Antonio had taken Stephanie out a day early for her birthday to Sullivan's Steakhouse in Downtown Naperville. After dinner they went on a walk along the river over to the bell tower where Antonio decided to propose. Spoiler Alert —she said YES!

Now, they’re getting married—proof that sometimes, the best love stories begin with friendship.