We're getting married!

It was October of 2020 and the only thing spookier than Halloween was figuring out how to navigate a worldwide pandemic. It was a time of hardship for many as we shifted into the new normal of wearing masks, constant hand washing, and social distancing from one another. On top of that, Robin was vigorously studying for his CPA exams while Jenna was providing services for those experiencing mental health crises. But amidst all of the chaos, we were meant to find each other— naturally on the dating app Hinge, of course. There was an instant spark as we bonded over our shared love of cheeseburgers and the San Fernando Valley where we both grew up. 3 FaceTime dates and 1 election later, November rolled around and Robin asked if Jenna would be willing to meet in person. We agreed to a socially distanced date at Los Angeles State Historic Park in Chinatown that was full of laughter and ease. One date turned into two then three and so on. As Thanksgiving approached, Jenna’s co-maid of honor and roommate at the time, Natasha, was exposed to COVID, resulting in the two of them having to isolate from one another. In a bold move, Jenna asked Robin if she could quarantine with him while Natasha determined her COVID status (which luckily turned out to be negative). Robin graciously obliged, and Jenna packed a bag anticipating to return within a week. However she never did end up going back as she found her home right there with Robin. In time that was so uncertain, we were grateful to feel certain about each other.

Chicago has a special place in our hearts! While Jenna studied at Indiana University, she visited Chicago a handful of times. Since then she has been lucky enough to visit her former college roommate and bridesmaid, Mollie, who moved to the city after graduation. Robin also has ties to the Windy City. Robin and his friends have made lasting memories visiting his childhood friend and groomsman, Tanner, who lives in Chicago, as well. We both love the city, so we knew that traveling there together for the first time in October of 2024 would be extra special. Our trip started off with a bang as we spent time with our friends, explored the sites, and ate our way through the city. Robin mentioned early on in the trip that it would be nice to go to an observation deck during sunset. Jenna thought it was a good idea as well, and we agreed to find time later in the trip to check one out. A few days later, Robin suggested that we visit the observation deck located at the top of Sears (now Willis) Tower. Jenna casually agreed and we penciled it in. At around 5:00PM Robin noticed the that the sun was starting to go down, and he was eager to get over to the observation deck. As Jenna checked the weather app on her phone, she assured him that the sun would officially set at around 6:00PM, and there was no need to rush. Robin however had other plans that Jenna was not aware of. Once we entered the ground floor of the tower, we were met with two options for admission: either pay for a ticket through an automated kiosk or stand in line to speak to a staff member at will call. Already knowing Robin’s preference, Jenna walked towards the kiosks. Robin stopped Jenna telling her that it would be better to get the tickets through will call as he could get us an employee discount for a “construction tour”. Jenna loves a deal, so without hesitation she agreed to stand in line at will call. Once we got to the front, Robin asked for tickets to the “construction tour”. The staff member pulled out a walkie-talkie and inaudibly whispered into it. Suddenly an attendant showed up and escorted us to the specialized tour as Robin began to feel especially nervous. He chalked it up to claustrophobia in the elevator as we ascended 110 stories. Once we reached the top of the tower, we looked out at the stunning view of the city. The skyline boasted monumental buildings, both historic and contemporary, as far as the eye could see. Light glimmered off Lake Michigan as the sun began to set, the sky fading from blue into a bright and warm orange. It was there that Robin got down on one knee and the rest is history! The Windy City is even more special to us now as it is forever part of our story.