Leading up to 2020, the stage was set for a trip to Italy. Joel wanted to make the vacation one to remember by planning to pop the question before we headed off to enjoy la dolce vida. The universe had other plans though, and it soon became clear in early Spring that we weren't going anywhere...especially Italy. Joel had to pivot his plan. In an effort to spice up our new quarantine lifestyle, Joel suggested one day in March that we institute "Formal Fridays" - get gussied up according to a dress-up theme, have some cocktails at home, and order in some takeout. If you know Joel, you know that whipping up a drink and putting on a suit is his idea of a good time, so my proposal spidey senses were NOT tingling. One such Formal Friday a few weeks later, after a dinner accompanied by candlelight and a ridiculously romantic Spotify playlist, I was setting out dishes for dessert when I heard Joel call me into our bedroom to "help him with something." When I walked in, he got down on his knee, pulling out a small box. And that was when I pretty much turned into a cliché of anyone ever proposed to in a movie or TV. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you in Chicago!

We love the idea of starting the next chapter of our lives together with a shared name, and wanted to do that in a way that felt right for us. We plan on both taking on the Israel surname from Joel's mother's side of the family. We're excited to become Mr. & Mrs. Israel!

We are keeping a close eye on Illinois' vaccination schedule and are optimistic that we can be fully vaccinated in time for the wedding. We hope that friends and family traveling from out of state will also be able to be vaccinated over the summer. Both the ceremony and reception will be held outdoors, and we will of course keep everyone posted of any changes as we get closer to the date. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns!