We’re Getting Married…again!

Taylor had been living in Chicago since 2020 and had been utilizing dating apps to meet potential suitors, Hinge specifically. Matteo, was new to Chicago and doing the same. By time October of 2022 came around, Taylor had been on a handful of BAD dates with men who were the furthest thing from "the one." After yet another failed date, she made a promise to herself that she would strategically, meticulously, and CAREFULLY use her 5 allotted "likes" on Hinge and if she had no luck, then that was the end of that. To her delight, and surprise, the first profile that popped up was a handsome man named Matteo. She thoroughly checked through his profile, his Instagram, and anything else she could find before sending the like that, unbeknownst to her, would change her life. Within minutes, Taylor received the notification that Matteo had in fact liked her back....it was a MATCH! For weeks Matteo insisted on taking Taylor out for a date. He offered a movie, drinks, a concert, you name it, he thought of it. Because of Taylors less than lucky dating history, she kept declining his offers. A handful of dates fell through because of this. But finally, on November 27, 2022 Taylor and Matteo had their first date at Luxbar. Unbeknownst to the couple, this would be both of their last first dates, with anyone but eachother. Taylor and Matteo shared their first kiss at Luxbar over the booth and then decided to keep the night going despite having work the next day. They then went across the street to a cocktail bar and then ended the night at an arcade bar. After that night, they were together ever since. After 6 months of dating, the two made a huge decision to move in together into Matteo's studio apartment in old town. Upon moving in together, the couple also decided to get a cat. Taylor of course wanted two, and Matteo only thought one. So, they compromised and rehomed two cats shortly after. After a few years of living together, the couple traveled, made memories, and planned a life together. NYE 2024, Matteo and Taylor took a trip to Vegas with their friends and to Taylors knowledge, it was a "birthday trip" for Matteo. To her complete and utter shock, it was her engagement trip. Our friends (and now Maids of Honor) Brigette and Jordan took her out for a fun "girl's day" and Matteo went with their husbands, Scott and Doyle to golf for the day. This was all a rouse to keep me out of the Airbnb where Matteo and my friends' husbands decorated for the impending engagement. After a long and fun day, we came home to the Airbnb and Matteo was waiting in the back by the pool with rose petals, tiki torches, and photos of the two throughout their journey. Taylor was so shocked, the only words she could think to muster up in that moment was "No, no, no, omg, you said you didnt have a ring, no." Which....in hindsight, probably wasn't the best thing to say when Matteo was looking for a YES. With this, the excitement, the nerves, the shock, Matteo was also at a loss for words and completely forgot to say his perfectly rehearsed speech (he will have his vows written down for the big day and Taylor will remove no from her vocabulary so don't worry). It was thoughtful, romantic, and intimate...everything Taylor wanted and more. A swift 25 Days later (take that 90-day fiancé), the couple eloped in the Cook County Courthouse in downtown Chicago on 1/25/25 in an intimate 2-hour queue waiting for the judge to perform the lengthy, 3-minute ceremony. The two were officially official in the eyes of Chicago, Illinois, and most importantly the USofA. Matteo and Taylor were lucky to host a small gathering at Taylors old hotel, The Ambassador, with close friends. The two are so excited to stand up in front of their loved ones, in Matteos home country and make their vows to one another, again. As of 7/17/26, you will get the opportunity to see their marriage recognized in Italy. We cant wait to see you there. Grazie!