Tracy and Torben met four years ago downtown Chicago. After a few months as friends they decided to go on an official date at the Morton Arboretum to see the light display. After several more dates, they decided to take a trip to Mexico with some friends. On their way back to the States, the pandemic had begun. Despite the pandemic almost keeping these two stuck in Mexico, they decided that being stuck together, no matter where they ended up, was something that would make them very happy.
… they started dating a week later.

A year into their relationship they took a leap and moved into an apartment in Elmhurst. They were so excited to finally have their own place and make so many new memories. Of course the first thing they did to make it feel like home, was adopt a sweet puppy named Luna Bear. Getting adjusted to a new city, a new puppy, and still dealing with the pandemic was quite a challenge for these two, but that didn’t stop them from making the most of it. They still traveled as much as they could and tried so many new places around their new city. They had made so many amazing memories there during those 15 months. For Valentine’s Day, shortly before moving out, Tracy had surprised Torben with another puppy named Tucker. They knew this was going to be another big adjustment with two dogs in their small apartment, so they decided to not resign their lease. Now, they were on the search for a larger home, with the priority being a backyard. They moved to Lake in the Hills a few months after moving out in June of 2022.

All settled into their new home, they had even more room to show their personalities with three times the space. Instead of city living, they were getting accustomed to farmers markets, dog parks, and a lot of DIY projects. Their relationship grew strong with their new home, happy dogs, and even more adventures. With life going so well for these two, there was only one thing missing.. the ring!

Per usual these two were always planning their next adventure. Little did Tracy know this adventure was going to be extra special. They planned a trip to go on a cruise to the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos over New Year’s Eve. On the third day of their cruise they got off the boat at Half-moon Cay Bahamas. It was a beautiful sunny day. The weather could not more perfect. They went with their friends to find a good spot on the white sand beach as soon as they got off. Of course, they had to all get pictures and during that time is when Torben got on one knee and popped the big question. It was such an exciting and emotional experience for the both of them and it couldn’t have been more perfect.