Years ago, we were introduced at a party hosted by a mutual friend. We both instantly felt a connection, and while the chemistry was there, the timing was not. We stayed friends for several years, and then, finally, in 2015, what began as an initial spark and a slow burn became a flame. I summoned up the courage to ask Dee out for drinks at Revolution Brewery in Chicago. From that evening on – we were inseparable.

Not long after we began dating, I asked Dee about her favorite holiday. Without hesitation, she said, “My birthday!” For years, I patiently held on to the idea that when the timing was right, I would ask her to marry me on her birthday. When the day came, I had it all planned out. I decorated our condo from floor to ceiling in her favorite color – rose gold. I entrusted our two Boston Terriers with the distinguished duty of presenting the last of her birthday gifts. That special gift was a bottle of wine custom engraved – Will You Marry Me? She said yes, and here we are! We are so excited to celebrate this next chapter of our lives with you. We hope to see you all in June!