We're getting married

It all started on November 8, 2017, when two Mizzou freshmen crossed paths and, without knowing it, met the love of their life. Over the next seven years, we grew up together, sharing late nights in Downtown Columbia, study sessions at Strickland, and date parties at FieldHouse. From college sweethearts to lifelong teammates, our relationship has blossomed into a relationship full of laughter, love, and lifelong memories. After graduation, Matt made a last-minute career pivot to move to Chicago (to be closer to Jess of course!). Since then, we’ve built a life together full of meaning, morning walks on the lake front, and the occasional martini night. We’ve explored the world hand-in-hand, from the blue waters in the South of France to the cliffs of Mallorca, Wimbledon in London to beach weekends in Puerto Peñasco. Traveling has always been our favorite thing—but no adventure has ever topped the one we share together every day. On November 15, 2024, Matt surprised Jess with a trip to New York City, one of our favorite places to explore, and proposed in Central Park with four handwritten letters, each one a reflection on our journey: love, purpose, adventure, and forever. Now, we're so excited to celebrate the next chapter with all of you - our favorite people.

Chicago is renowned as the birthplace of modern architecture—a city where innovation meets elegance in steel, stone, and glass. As architecture lovers (and proud Chicago residents), we knew we wanted a venue that reflected the city’s rich history, timeless beauty, and distinctive style. That’s why we chose The Rookery. Completed in 1888, The Rookery is one of Chicago’s most iconic and historically significant buildings. Designed by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root, it’s a masterpiece of the Chicago School style (a pre-curser to the modern sky scraper). In 1905, Frank Lloyd Wright reimagined the building’s central light court, blending Prairie-style and early art deco elements with the original ironwork and Romanesque features. The result is a space that feels both historic and forward-looking. With its grand staircase, soaring atrium, and one-of-a-kind details, The Rookery reflects who we are: rooted in tradition, shaped by growth, and always looking up.