When Tara and Nicole matched on Tinder, neither of them could have imagined how much that simple swipe would change their lives. Tara messaged first. Tara's version of a Tinder opener was a paragraph-long message about a photo on Nicole's profile featuring a chicken perched on her head, closing with the all-important question: did she like board games? On their first date at Kuma's Corner, they talked for so long that dinner turned into drinks at First Place. Their connection was instant, and what began casually soon blossomed into something much deeper. Their early days together were filled with simple but unforgettable moments: stealing kisses in the rain, Tara writing love poems for Nicole on her lunch breaks, and even helping friends move furniture into a new apartment. Laughter quickly became one of the foundations of their relationship, whether it was wearing matching outfits, rocking American flag overalls, or recreating awkward JCPenney-style photoshoots. Somewhere between the long conversations, shared laughter, and countless memories, they realized they had found something special. No matter what they were doing, they had the most fun when they were together. Over the last three years, they have grown side by side through life's highs and lows. After a year of dating, they moved in together and built a home filled with love, trust, and healing. Together they experienced the heartbreak of losing their first dogs, while also opening their hearts to new furry family members: Gus, June, and Boots. Through every challenge and every celebration, they have grown and built an unshakable foundation of trust. On August 17, 2025, Tara asked Nicole to spend forever together. Standing on the bridge in St. Charles where they often slow dance to Cotton Eye Joe, Tara proposed to the love of her life. The perfect moment was followed by a surprise celebration with their families at the Arcada Speakeasy, making the day even more unforgettable. Looking back, they are grateful for the journey that brought them together and the people they have become along the way. They met each other at their lowest points, helped one another heal, and now have the privilege of loving the best versions of themselves and each other. Somehow, a simple swipe led them to the love they had both been searching for. What began as an instant connection has become a partnership built on trust, understanding, and endless love. Tara cannot imagine her life without Nicole and Nicole feels incredibly lucky that she gets to spend forever with her best friend and better half.