Amanda and Alec met at Nick’s Beer Garden in the Fall of 2013. Amanda first caught Alec’s eye by the water cooler. He and his wingman, now his best man, attempted to charm Amanda and her friends. The pair eventually exchanged phone numbers. A week later, Alec made a reservation for their first date at a BYOB, all-you-can-eat Sushi Restaurant. The two laughed over the realization that the restaurant was not BYOB, resulting in a bottle of wine being confiscated at the door, and that Alec did not know how to use chopsticks despite many attempts while trying to impress her. Despite the first date being anything but smooth, Alec and Amanda had a great time, and the rest is history.

After seven years and four months of dating which included many more sushi nights (Alec has gotten better at using chopsticks), three-city apartments, adopting a stray kitten, and many road trips, Alec proposed on May 22, 2021, at Oz Park in Chicago. Under the guise of going out for her birthday, Alec took Amanda to some of the local places that had carried fond memories of their dating history. Some of these places included Trader Todd’s Karaoke Bar and Half Shell Restaurant where they shared their first-anniversary dinner many years ago. Ultimately, the proposal would take place at the park down the street from where they shared their first apartment together. Years prior to the proposal, Amanda gave Alec one rule stating that if he ever were to propose, it better be in private. While trying to pick a sentimental place and keeping this rule in mind, Alec decided the proposal would take place at the top of a hill at Oz Park where people rarely gathered. Upon arrival to the planned proposal destination, to his dismay, Alec witnessed the first music festival hosted at Oz Park. While Amanda found it amusing to see a thousand people here for the first time, Alec panicked and realized it was time to improvise. In one corner of the park, Alec spotted a garden. Some people were there sunbathing, but this had to do. Alec dragged a reluctant Amanda into the garden. She was under the impression that they were on their way to another birthday-related activity. Alec started his speech and Amanda exclaims, “Are you going to propose?!?!?!” Alec got down on one knee and asked Amanda, “Will you marry me?” Amanda snatched the ring from the box and placed it on. It was a yes. Directly following the proposal, Alec surprised Amanda with a rooftop party at the Dugout Bar in Lakeview. Despite the bouncer tipping Amanda off about the surprise, Amanda was still joyful and touched to be greeted by family and friends. We can't wait to celebrate with you all Memorial Day weekend!