We're Getting Married!

Holly and Tyler had originally planned to have a traditional first date over drinks at a bar...that was until a global pandemic hit. Instead of cancelling, Holly & Tyler decided to pivot to a coffee walk in March 2020. After about an hour walk, Tyler departed with a quick wave, and Holly was unsure if he liked her or not. Well it turned out that Tyler did like Holly, and this was clear when he asked if she wanted to go on a second date, Holly invited Tyler over for pizza because Chicago was still shut down. As an avid Dateline watcher, Holly panicked the day of the second date that she was inviting a random man into her home so she quickly texted Tyler that she couldn't make the date anymore. Tyler took the pizzas he already picked up from Happy Camper (downstairs from Holly's apartment), and he headed home to split the pizza with his roommate at the time Silvis. He didn't lose hope, and he ended up calling her on Facetime her while she spent time at her parents. Holly quickly learned what a kind person Tyler was, and as soon as she was back to the city, they finally had their second date. Spoiler warning, they have been together ever since. Five years together have flown by - they made it through the pandemic, raised a dog together (their pride and joy, Nora - who likes to be/usually is the star of the show, so she will not be at the wedding), moved to Bucktown two years into their relationship, traveled domestic and internationally together, supported one another through career changes, and they continue to enjoy our life in Chicago every day. The Proposal Story Tyler's proposal caught Holly off guard - it turns out the ring was in the apartment for almost two months. It was hidden in Tyler's sock drawer, but as he pointed out, he manages the laundry, so he knew Holly would never find it. Given Holly's love for filling their social calendar throughout the year, especially in summertime Chicago. To avoid giving away his proposal plan with an out of ordinary proactive plan, Tyler crafted a plan with Holly's parents to ensure the day remained free for them. So, Holly's parents told her they wanted to go golfing with Tyler and her on August 10, and the day was officially blocked off. Then, the day prior to the golf outing, her mom called to tell her Dad messed up the tee times, and they had to pivot to Sunday. With no Saturday plans now, Tyler knew it would be less obvious if he proposed a "spontaneous plan" to Holly. So, he mentioned he was feeling some "Chicago nostalgia", and he suggested they go check-out the air and water show...which Holly agreed to (reluctantly). The day of, Tyler was so nervous, and Holly was being a smidge difficult. After some convincing from Tyler, they made it to Lincoln Park where Tyler popped the question, and although neither of them remember, it was an obvious YES from Holly. We've had the best time enjoying our engagement, but could not be more excited for our wedding and starting this new chapter with all of our favorite people!