Our story began in February 2023, when we met at just the right time. What started with a simple first date at Applebee’s quickly turned into much more. As we got to know each other, it became clear we weren’t just building a relationship—we were bringing together a family. Between busy lives and long drives, we made it work. Not long after, Mark asked me to move in, and we started our life together under one roof. About a year later, Mark proposed in Chicago during a winter night at the zoo, and of course, I said yes. Since then, life hasn’t always been easy. We’ve faced challenges, including a season where we were living in a hotel with our baby. But through it all, we stuck together and kept moving forward. Today, we’re in our first home, dreaming about the future, and excited for October 17th—when we’ll finally say “I do.”