Carolyn and Michael fortuitously matched via the dating app Hinge while Michael was away on a work trip in the Philippines in January 2021. Despite the 13 hour time difference, Michael and Carolyn exchanged messages for a few weeks, with Michael sending pictures and videos of the beach and the Filipino food he was eating (Google Balut) and Carolyn giving him updates on the winter weather back in Wisconsin. The same day Michael arrived home in Milwaukee, they decided to meet up at Eagle Park Brewery, a mere 500 steps from Michael's condo on Pearson Street. Michael, showed up late despite living just around the corner. The first date went well but the Wisconsin winter took a turn for the worst and turned into the "Polar Vortex" of 2019. Carolyn had grad school classes canceled for a week, and instead spent much of that time braving -20+ degree temps walking back and forth to Michael's and vice-versa. The weather eventually warmed, and the two spent the spring and summer exploring Milwaukee together before Carolyn eventually moved in in September. They found many great beer gardens (Estabrook), restaurants (Don's Diner), and trails along the way. Since moving in, the two have shared many great memories together including but not limited to the following: - The 2021 Milwaukee Bucks NBA Championship! Giannis, Jrue, Khris, and Brook were all invited to the wedding but unfortunately had to decline due to scheduling conflicts. - Getting our 3rd family member, Milly (short for Milwaukee) and dealing with her penchant for hogging the bed and chasing every squirrel. - 2 trips to Europe that featured an unlimited amount of olives, wine, cheese and a lot of running to train stations. - Many weekends spent in Appleton with Michael's family and in Skokie with Carolyn's. - Countless games of golf (the card game, not the sport) and backgammon that Michael usually wins. In 2022, Michael finally proposed on a hiking trail at Estabrook Beer Garden. Carolyn appreciated trading the bag of Milly's poop in her hand for the ring. The couple was cheered on by local fishermen. Carolyn and Michael went on to celebrate with their parents, Bob and Linda Kusel and Jeff and Kathy Van Straten afterwards, with a few beers, pretzels, and some polka music. We can't wait to have you join us in Milwaukee for our big day. We make no guarantees about the weather but can guarantee a fun evening in a classic venue with some wonderful people. Let's let it rip!