Joe and Cat crossed paths through the dating app Bumble, starting a connection rooted in their shared experiences of having large families and brothers with Down syndrome. Their first date was at The Publican, a restaurant nestled in the West Loop of Chicago. However, a humorous misunderstanding arose when Joe proposed the idea for drinks, and Cat initially believed he meant the nearby Publican Quality Meats—a butcher shop. To her surprise, the restaurant existed too, leading to Joe to this day still teasing Cat about saying yes to a first date at a butcher shop.

Their relationship blossomed, and not long after, they made plans to travel to Mexico, Spain, and Portugal. Little did Cat expect that during their weekend getaway to Wisconsin, Joe would choose that moment to propose. Seemingly just a casual getaway to a cabin for hiking and skiing, this moment was perfect for the two. Cat set up her polaroid camera to take a cute pic in front of the cabin, and as soon as the flash went off, Joe got down on one knee and asked Cat to be his partner for life.

I am beyond excited to celebrate and document Cat + Joe’s big day at The Armour House next year!!