The story of Anna and Steven began in the fall of 2017, when two college students made what would turn out to be one of the best decisions of their young lives: they both volunteered to serve as executives for Saint Mary’s College Dance Marathon (SMCDM). Steven, a student at Holy Cross College, and Anna, attending Saint Mary's, first crossed paths at their weekly SMCDM board meetings, held in the cozy space of Spes Unica. It was there that Steven first noticed Anna, and he quickly claimed the seat next to her. What he didn’t know at the time was that this seemingly casual choice would turn into a permanent spot for the next two years. Over the course of those two years, through the highs and lows of Dance Marathon, social gatherings, casual dinner dates, and even a memorable Chainsmokers concert, their friendship blossomed into something more. Though Steven might have hoped things would progress a little faster, their relationship grew at its own pace, and by the winter of 2019, they finally shared their first date at The Livery. Fast forward to the present day, and Anna and Steven have now been a part of each other’s lives for more than seven years. Together, they moved to Chicago after graduation, ready to take on the world. Anna became a nurse, while Steven built his career in sales. They built not only their careers but also a home together, sharing their lives with their beloved dog, Riggins — the best whoodle in the city. On November 17th, 2023, Steven planned the ultimate surprise proposal. Anna had convinced herself that she saw it coming, but she was blissfully blindsided when Steven popped the question, surrounded by their closest family and friends at the Christmas tree lighting in Millennium Park, Chicago. It was a moment filled with joy, love, and pure magic. Now, with the wedding date of June 14, 2025, fast approaching, Anna and Steven are counting down the days until they can officially begin the next chapter of their lives together. They couldn’t be more excited to continue this beautiful journey, side by side, for the rest of their lives.