Meghan and Nick met in Champaign at the University of Illinois. They were celebrating the graduation of their brothers Timmy and Michael. They instantly hit it off and ended up exchanging numbers that night. Meghan was immediately drawn to Nick’s passion about his career, his love for animals, and the way he made her laugh. Nick loved Meghan's smile, her love for family, and the fact that she had a golden retriever. They continued to stay in touch after the weekend, and Nick eventually asked Meghan on their first date. The night began at a brewery and ended at a karaoke bar with friends. After that first one, the date nights never stopped. They spent the next 2 and a half years falling in love amidst Otie walks, Jeni's ice cream, and trying new restaurants.

Nick carefully constructed the perfect proposal day. He told Meghan they were going to take a professional family portrait with the Baur family. They arrived at the Adler Planetarium and walked near the water to a spot that had their favorite view of the city. This is where Nick had told Meghan they would be meeting his family. Instead of finding Nick's family there, Meghan was surprised to find a photographer and nobody else. At that point, Nick got down on one knee. It took Meghan a second to realize what was happening, but once she did she was so excited. Nick had planned a fun rest of the day to take place so that they could continue to celebrate. They enjoyed lunch together at Aba, and afterwards he had both the Baur and Griffin families surprise them at a brewery. The night ended with everyone drinking champagne and eating pizza at Parlor.