Our story began on February 8, 2019, on an average Friday night in the West Loop of Chicago. My best friend Justine and I had wrapped up a spontaneous dinner at Roister (RIP) where we had snagged a last-minute reservation. Not wanting the night to end just yet, we ventured across the street to Swift & Sons, a swanky steakhouse I had only visited once before, to enjoy a nightcap at the bar. Over dinner, I had declared I was taking a much-needed break from dating, thoroughly exhausted by my latest love bombing experience and feeling the need for a reset. What perfect timing for a tall, handsome gentleman to walk over and say hello… to Justine. They both exchanged some words, and he was introduced to me as Mike Mullins. We barely spoke beyond our introduction, but I felt his charisma straightaway. Once he retreated to his table behind us, Justine began to explain how she knew him. As it turned out, Justine’s then-boyfriend (now husband) Sam and Mike grew up together, and they had begun rekindling their childhood friendship after a destination wedding they had all recently attended together (#CheersToTheScherers!!). Mid-explanation, Justine interrupted herself with an abrupt gasp and a very audible OH MY GOD, making it clear she had just come up with a bright idea. She insisted “You NEED to date Mike Mullins.” I, the single, jaded one, reminded her that I was on a break from dating, but she quickly rattled off all the reasons why Mike should be an exception. Her excitement was infectious. I quickly decided that despite my dating hiatus, having my best friend personally vet and recommend an eligible bachelor was probably not someone I should ignore. Two days later, we went on our first date, and it was perfect from start to finish. The conversation flowed so naturally, and we were instantly flirting back and forth. Mike was a perfect gentleman. I had never been so giddy in the middle of a date before. Maybe Justine was right about this guy after all. Fast forward to March 24, 2024, Mike popped the question in front of the iconic Chicago Theatre, a very special place to us where we’d enjoyed our first of many concerts and shows together over the last five years. After the initial shock dissipated, it was the easiest question I ever answered. I can’t wait to marry you, Mike.