November 20, 2026

After matching on both Hinge and Bumble in 2023, they agreed to meet at Bandit in Chicago’s West Loop. Both of them were nervous but excited. CJ had been in Chicago for about a year and a half and was still searching (and swiping) for someone he could annoy with all of his corny jokes. Katie had endured her fair share of terrible first dates in the city. After spending several hours at the bar chatting, eating, laughing, and genuinely enjoying each other’s company, the waitress came over and said, “Hey, we’re closing.” They were both surprised. Time had flown by during deep conversations that touched on all the topics you’re not supposed to discuss on a first date. Their second and third dates were much of the same: closing down bars, restaurants, and putt-putt golf courses while smiling, laughing, and enjoying food and drinks together. It felt like something out of a novel. CJ knew Katie was the one he had been hoping for since leaving Frederick, Maryland. Katie felt it too, but she was patiently waiting for the other shoe to drop. CJ fell hard and fast. Katie remained poised and careful, wanting to make sure he was as wonderful as he seemed. After a few months of spending more and more time together, they decided to make it official. Eventually, Katie moved to the north side of Chicago. She practically lived out of a few bags in CJ’s “Lakeview” (read: Wrigleyville) apartment. Before long, they knew it was time to move in together. They found an apartment in the West Loop and have loved it ever since. They spend their days enjoying their first-date spot and many other fantastic restaurants (often with friends), strolling through the farmers market, walking the neighborhood with Corby and Athena, popping into new coffee shops, and exploring local stores. Eventually, CJ decided it was time to ask the big question. On April 5, 2025, he convinced Katie they were meeting some of his family for brunch. Though she had a feeling this might be the moment, she talked herself out of it. CJ sweated through the entire walk to Gin Alley in the West Loop. Then, he dropped to one knee and asked her to marry him. She said yes! They celebrated with family and friends that evening. One thing is certain: Katie and CJ truly care for all of their friends and can talk to just about anyone about just about anything. They cannot wait to celebrate their love with the people who helped make them who they are. November 20th cannot come soon enough!