The year was 2012, Caitlin & Ben’s junior year at the University of Illinois. They were both “studying” abroad…Caitlin in Verona & Ben in Rome. They were already acquainted through mutual friends, many of whom were also in the Verona & Rome programs. Caitlin & Ben were ready to immerse themselves in Italian culture & consume endless amounts of pasta & wine. Despite studying in the City of Love where Romeo famously romanced Juliet on a balcony, Caitlin was not actively looking for her soulmate. That is, until she began to travel with Ben, the cute, funny guy from the Rome program who seemed to command everyone's attention with his wit & openness for adventure. Several months later, while celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Dublin, one Guinness led to another & before you knew it, Ben & Caitlin had shared their first kiss! Ben couldn't resist Caitlin's charm and big personality. Carla & Ed were a bit surprised when Caitlin extended her stay at semester’s end to spend time with Ben in Rome. Their romance blossomed with gelato dates, walks to the Pantheon, & candlelit dinners. This began their love for travel and fine dining. On their first real date, Ben walked Caitlin around in circles, insisting he knew the right way. This was one of the first (of many) times these two have had to ask for directions. In 2015, Caitlin moved to Boston to pursue her dream of becoming a Physician Assistant at Tufts. Ben missed her terribly and moved to Boston shortly after to start law school at BU. Their cross country adventure solidified their relationship, as these two made a new life exploring the beautiful East Coast. Though a piece of their hearts will always remain in Boston, the Cubbies called them back to Sweet Home Chicago to rejoin friends & family. On December 1st, Ben put a ring on it— a long awaited proposal that came at the perfect time. Caitlin & Ben are thrilled to share with everyone Caitlin's dream of a New Year's Eve wedding in Chicago. Let the countdown begin!