We are getting married, August 2, 2025!

We met in an unexpected way - Tequila Trivia! We were on opposing teams but by the end of the game we connected and exchanged numbers. From that evening forward, our relationship grew, built on a foundation of laughter, shared adventures of bingo at the local bar, concerts, and the enjoyment of a Chicago summer.

The proposal was nothing short of special —and it happened at one of our favorite places in Chicago: the ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo. We had visited ZooLights together the year before, and it became a special memory for us, filled with laughter, wine, and the stunning light displays. This past year, CJ surprised Courtney with plans to get drinks before meeting a few of our friends at Zoo lights later in the evening. Just before sunset, CJ brought Courtney to a bridge next to the zoo lights that has the Chicago skyline in the distance. CJ got down on one knee and asked Courtney to marry him. It’s a memory we’ll both cherish forever—one that truly captures the magic of our relationship and the joy of sharing these little moments that mean the world to us. A special thanks to our friend Zack who was able to photograph this moment!