It is often said that great food and great company are two of life's simplest, yet greatest pleasures. On a warm July evening in 2019, we shared our very first date at Sheffield's Beer Garden, where the atmosphere sparkled with twinkle lights and laughter. The weather was just right, creating the perfect backdrop for a night filled with connection and conversation. We chatted for hours, diving into our passions for travel and sharing stories about our hobbies, discovering so much about each other along the way. Before we knew it we were the last ones there, and the night was coming to an end. However, that magical night laid the foundation for our journey together, filled with love, adventure, and countless more evenings under the stars.

After our amazing first date, Chris asked me out for a second date at a local brewpub, which sounded fantastic—until I discovered the dangers of “bottomless” mimosas at brunch. Let’s just say I took that phrase a bit too literally! I ended up snoozing on the couch and woke up in a panic, realizing I’d missed our date by an hour. Not sure if I had stood him up, Chris anxiously waited for me, all while his friends were texting urging him not to wait any longer. Instead, he heroically chose to stay because, well, the beer was just too good! After a lot of sweet talking (and maybe a few puppy eyes), he agreed to give me a second chance and meet at another tavern down the street. Now we joke that it was that delicious brew that really sealed the deal for us—who knew hops and barley could lead to true love? Over five years later, we still enjoy a good pint together, and it all started with my nap and his questionable judgment!

Traveling together is one of our greatest joys as a couple, and we seize every opportunity to explore new places, whether it’s a quick weekend getaway near our Chicago home or a multi-week international adventure. From wandering the ruins of Machu Picchu alongside curious llamas to taking a thrilling mule ride along the rim of the Grand Canyon, each trip has added to our story. Our most recent journey was a breathtaking two-week tour of Alaska, where we experienced the stunning beauty of both land and sea.

We’ve also cherished unforgettable moments with our closest friends and family, including weekends away to Door County and Frankenmuth with our friends Elena and John, and being able to take my grandma and parents on their first international trip to Belgium and France. Of course anyone that knows us knows we love indulging in the magic of Disney, occasionally with our loved ones in tow. Yet, our most memorable trip has to be our trip to Paris for my 30th birthday, where Chris proposed to me at the top of the Eiffel Tower—making it a moment we’ll treasure forever! (Spoiler alert... I said YES!)

Ah, the day I proposed at the Eiffel Tower—an adventure filled with love, nerves, and a heart-pounding fear of gravity. Picture this: I’m strutting around Paris with a ring tucked away in my pocket, praying I don’t accidentally launch it into the Seine while trying to play it cool. Thanks to my accomplice, Elena (the ultimate maid of honor and distraction expert), we managed to keep Travis's family occupied while I executed my master plan. The moment came, and he looked a bit bewildered, like I’d just asked him to solve a riddle in a foreign language. But once I revealed the ring, everything clicked—cue the “Oui” and the joyous celebration that followed! We popped champagne and toasted our way through the clouds, surrounded by friends and family, all while I silently vowed to never again attempt to balance a ring in my pocket on a day full of sightseeing. Paris truly became the city of love that day—complete with a side of comedic chaos!

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Chris spent most of his youth appreciating the highlights of Texas, including its famous BBQ and love of football - which he would later have fun playing in a community league in Chicago. He attended Southern Methodist University, where he not only marched in the Mustangs Band but also honed his skills in computer programming. After college, Chris's adventurous spirit took him across the globe, including a year of living in jolly ol' England before he finally settled in Chicago, which he now proudly calls home. An avid traveler, Chris has checked off all seven wonders of the world, with his final stop—Chichen Itza—shared with Travis on their most recent trip to Mexico. When he’s not jetting off to new destinations, you can find him at a local brewery sampling craft beers, building intricate Lego sets, or dreaming up the couple’s next adventure. Excited for what lies ahead, Chris is particularly looking forward to planning their honeymoon: an exhilarating African safari for him and a luxurious overwater villa in the Maldives for Travis. Here's to more adventures together!

Meet Travis, born and raised in Greenfield, Indiana, he's a charming blend of small-town roots and big-city ambition. He pursued his passion of arguing (aka the law) at Indiana University, where he studied criminal justice and theatre - because what good attorney isn't a little theatrical? After undergrad he traded cornfields for the skyscrapers in Chicago, embracing the hustle and bustle of the city. Determined to reach new heights, he took "multitasking" to a whole new level as he tackled law school at the University of Illinois, Chicago School of Law. Somehow, Chris survived four years of Travis juggling full-time work and a full law school course load, proving that love really is patient. Now he balances his time between kicking butt in the courtroom and relaxing at home, whether it's lounging by the pool with a cocktail or binge-watching their latest show together. Most importantly, he's been busy planning their perfect wedding and fun-filled weekend for all of you! With a sense of humor and a knack for adventure, he's looking forward to whatever comes next - preferably with snacks in hand!