Despite not growing up in climates remotely close to that found in the Midwest, both Ariel & Aaron were drawn to living in Chicago. The skyline, the pizza, and the opportunities were all attractive. But more than that, there was the feeling that someone special, a soulmate, was waiting there. In the Fall of 2015, a friend invited Ariel to a dinner because she knew of a handsome Guatemalan who could be a great match for her. As soon as Ariel and Aaron saw each other, there was an instant connection. After a few weeks and a couple of hints from Ariel, Aaron asked her on a date to watch the Cubs beat the Pirates at a Lincoln Park bar. However they paid no attention to the game whatsoever, and instead talked for hours about music, their families, and the sports they actually like. The following years have been filled with adventure, laughter, and the knowledge that they want to spend the rest of their lives together.

After a little over a year of dating, Aaron started having serious conversations with close family about the future he wanted with Ariel. These conversations turned into actions, which led to Aaron asking Ariel's father for his blessing in marrying his daughter. His answer of "What are you waiting for?" gave Aaron the confidence to go ahead with his plan. A few months later, an engagement ring and location for proposal was chosen. On the morning of July 12, 2018 Aaron suggested to Ariel that they go out that night for dinner. He had picked a restaurant next to the lake, but more importantly, only a 5-minute walk from the selected spot. It was a beautiful summer evening, and they decided to walk to dinner. When approaching the restaurant, Aaron instead asked to take a detour to show Ariel his favorite spot in the city. Ariel was hungry and confused, but agreed anyway. They walked into Milton Lee Olive Park, and down the tree-lined path leading to a beautiful overlook of the water and the skyline. After enjoying the view for a few moments, Aaron turned to Ariel and said "You are the love of my life, and before we go to dinner, I want to ask you something". As he got down on one knee, Ariel was so surprised all she could say was "What are you doing?!" He retrieved the ring from his shirt pocket, and asked "Will you marry me?" to which Ariel, still in a state of shock, responded "DUH". She then clarified "Yes!"