I still remember it like it was yesterday. January 23rd, 2021. I was at one of my best friends (Haylie) wedding in Naples, Florida. During cocktail hour, I walked over by the beach to admire the beautiful sunset. All of a sudden a hand appeared in front of me saying “I just wanted to introduce myself, my name’s Ross.” Ross CLAIMS the first thing I said in return was “Do you want to see a picture of my dog?” In my defense, I did just get my dog, Violet, a month earlier…and who wouldn’t want to see a picture of an adorable puppy? We spent the rest of the night dancing and getting to know one another. I learned that Ross grew up two doors down from Haylie’s in-laws and that he had two brothers to my one sister. I also learned he loved the dance floor, something that immediately piqued my interest. After the wedding we kept in touch, and a month later we had our first date on February 13th. In hindsight, we laugh about it because we didn’t realized it was Valentine’s weekend and EVERYTHING was booked. Somehow though, Ross worked his magic and we had the most incredible first date at Avec in the West Loop that night. We talked for hours and hours. I simply could not stop smiling. I think I can speak for both of us when I say neither of us have looked back since that first date night. Three years later and here we are today. I am so proud of the relationship that Ross and I have built. He is the most selfless, caring, hardworking man I know. It has been so much fun merging our lives together— and all the craziness that comes with it! After countless trips back and forth from Chicago to Plymouth trying to make the long distance work, Ross finally moved to Plymouth in October of 2023. A short month later, he asked me to go get drinks downtown Plymouth. It was oddly uncharacteristic how on time he was for “just drinks” but I went along with it because Ross being early for something is a rare blessing. I now know the real reason was….he PROPOSED! Right in the heart of Plymouth. It was the absolute happiest moment of my life. My love, my best friend, and someone who I am so proud to build a life with. After, he surprised me with a huge engagement party at our favorite local brewery. I can’t help but smile so big as I type this out. It was a night filled with so much love and laughter. Two things that are so apparent each and every day in our relationship. We cannot wait to take this relationship to the next level and celebrate our MARRIAGE with all of you. It truly will be a night to remember. Thank you for all your love and support along the way. We are who we are because of who we surround ourselves with, and boy are we lucky. Cheers to becoming a Fumagalli!