After being introduced by a mutual friend (feel free to thank Tonya when you see her) Steph & Rick had their first date at Papa Bear's. It was below freezing out, but the food and company were warm. Look forward to tasting some of their first date food at the reception! (Lemon chicken and meatballs)

A "near-death" experience on their third date that included both food poisoning and a blizzard convinced Steph and Rick to take a chance on each other.

Absence really does make the heart grow fonder! Long commutes and busy schedules kept them from spending enough time together so Rick packed up his belongings, sold his house and moved south to be with Steph. A new home with a beautiful lakefront view was waiting to welcome him to his new city, along with two adorable kitties and his smart, funny, amazing future bride. Bonus is that Rick's daughter now only lives 10 minutes away!

Almost a year to the day after that fateful snow (and the poisoning incident) Steph said yes -- but only after Rick asked twice, just so she could be sure to remember the moment!

When you know, you know! It didn't take long for them to realize that they were happiest when they were together. Getting married was an easy decision. They did, however, go back and forth (and back and forth and back and forth) trying to decide whether they should elope or have a wedding. In the end, they just couldn't imagine not sharing this day with their friends and families. You have laughed with them, cried with them, prayed with them and for them and now... now it's time to CELEBRATE!!