Tania and Gideon’s story began in the most unexpected way—on AOL Messenger. What started as casual chats during the dial-up era turned into a lasting friendship that spanned years and state lines. When they finally met in person—Tania brought her maid of honor Shelley, and Gideon arrived with his best man Duane. That day sparked something more than friendship, and they decided to give a long-distance relationship a try—Tania in Virginia, Gideon in Chicago. After graduating college, Tania moved to Chicago for an internship that led to full-time work, and together they began building a life in the city. Over the years, they filled their time with things they both love: trying new restaurants, dancing at Lollapalooza, traveling the world (with memorable trips to Portugal, Japan, Paris, Ireland, Cuba, Canada, and more), and—of course—cheering on the Cubs at Wrigley Field. In September 2024, surrounded by fans and the energy of a game they both love, Gideon proposed at a Cubs game—bringing their journey full circle in the city where they built their life together.