Like all modern-day romances, ours began with a little help from the cosmic universe… and Hinge. Just days before, one of Hannah’s coworkers had warned her, “This isn’t Texas — lower your radius. Thirty miles away isn’t the same here.” Luckily, Hannah ignored the advice. After a day out in the city with friends, feeling bold and optimistic, she enthusiastically sent a “like” to her future husband, Jason. A few days of virtual flirting and endless laughing later, the first date was officially on the calendar (Hannah LOVES a calendar) — a Friday in April 2023. As the big night approached, nerves set in. Hannah briefly considered bailing (classic), and Jason — equally nervous — attempted to walk into one of the hottest restaurants in Chicago… without a reservation. Fortunately for everyone involved, Hannah had a reservation in her back pocket — and just enough courage to show up. After hours of Hannah happily yapping and Jason sweetly listening, something just clicked. What was supposed to be one date turned into something much bigger. From that night forward, they were inseparable.
From exploring every pub and dog-walking route in Chicago, to charming the local Wrigleyville parking man, to meeting every friend and family member in one fell swoop, both Jason and Hannah knew early on — this was the real deal. And speaking of quickly… six months later, they decided it was time to shorten the “distance.” Jason’s Thursday night drives into Chicago and Hannah’s Friday South Shore Line rides to Northwest Indiana officially came to an end when they moved into their very first home together at Wolf Point West — perfectly perched along the Chicago River. Life in the city was full of celebration and adventure: fabulous Green River St. Patrick’s Day parties, countless L rides to Wrigley Field, and long walks along the Chicago Lakefront Trail as the skyline sparkled beside them. But as much as they loved city living, they knew their next chapter was calling. Soon after, they purchased their very own home — just minutes from family and lifelong friends — on Greenwood Avenue in Munster, Indiana, where late-night porch talks and backyard sunsets quickly became their new favorite routine. And while it was a dream come true for Hannah and Jason, no one was more thrilled than Murphy. With a big backyard to unleash her zoomies (and just a little bit of menace), she confidently declared it the best decision they had ever made.
Apparently, six months is a theme. Six months after moving onto Greenwood Avenue, Jason planned the most perfect proposal — one that Hannah somehow never saw coming. He secretly flew in Hannah’s closest family and friends, who by then had joined forces with Jason’s crew to form what can only be described as the greatest village there ever was. The day began with a perfect “Pookie Meister” afternoon, filled with pints, laughter, a little bit of rain, some stylish ponchos and ballpark hot dogs at Wrigley Field, the very place where Jason had first asked Hannah to be his girlfriend. Full circle — but she still had no idea what was coming. After the perfect date day out, they drove home to Munster, where rose petals were scattered across their sunlit backyard — the backyard of their very first home together. With tears flowing and love overflowing, Jason got down on one knee and made it official official. He asked Hannah to be his teammate forever — and to become the FUTURE MRS. O’DONNELL. And of course, she said yes.
And now here we are. Inviting you to celebrate the best chapter yet. You have been there for every step, every leap, every move, and every six-month milestone. Everything we are is because of the love, support, and village that surrounds us. We truly would not be here without each and every one of you. So now it’s your turn. Raise a glass. Submit that RSVP. Dust off those dancing shoes hiding in the back of your closet. It’s time to celebrate MR. & MRS. O’DONNELL May 15, 2027