Our story began in August 2023 at a mutual friend’s wedding — proof that sometimes the best things happen when you least expect them. Not long after, we had our first date at Sushi Naper, still one of our favorite spots to this day, and the start of countless food adventures together.

Whether it’s oysters, lobsters, all other seafood, steak dinners, sushi nights, pizza, pasta, or hibachi, food and trying new restaurants has always been a big part of our relationship. We also love hosting friends and family, filling our home with good food, drinks, laughter, and the people who mean the most to us.

Over the years, we’ve built a life full of adventures and memories alongside our two dogs, Wrigley and Sophie. We love traveling together — especially to Aruba, where we took our first trip together in April 2024 — and spending weekends exploring farmers markets with Wrigley by our side.

In December 2024, we moved in together and started creating a home filled with love, laughter, good music, and lots of cooking on the Blackstone.

Then, on April 25, 2026, during the Tulip Fest at Kuipers Family Farm, Jake asked Jen to spend forever together surrounded by colorful tulips and one of the most beautiful days we’ve shared.

Our friends and family have been such an important part of our journey, and we feel incredibly lucky to celebrate this next chapter with the people we love most.