Melissa and Patrick have been married since July 3rd, 2017 and were dating from 2009. They met at a party in 2009 right before Melissa planned to move from Chicago to Tampa Bay, Florida. Through the power of Google Chat, Melissa and Patrick began chatting while Patrick was at school at Illinois State University. Soon after they began dating (very) long distance. Though this was not easy, Melissa did end up moving back to Chicago in 2011 and their relationship began to truly flourish. 

Melissa

Melissa was born in Florida but grew up outside Chicago and went to school outside of Chicago. Melissa is very creative individual who enjoys exploring different mediums of art. Melissa has strong opinions and sticks to her beliefs. 

Things Melissa thoroughly enjoys:

• Camping/hiking
• Her Pets
• Writing, Photography, and Painting
• DIY Projects
• Quoting TV Shows and Movies 
• Reading 
• Music 
• Lattes 
• Sushi

Patrick 

Patrick is a high school engineering and woodshop teacher at a suburban high school outside of Chicago. Patrick grew up in the suburbs of Chicago with a brother and sister and a multitude of pets. During his childhood Patrick spent time traveling and camping throughout the United States with his family which shaped his love for the outdoors. 

Things Patrick thoroughly enjoys:

• Camping/hiking
• His Pets 
• Coffee
• Gardening/horticulture 
• DIY Projects - woodworking, metal working
• Snowboarding
• Cooking 
• The Office
• Music
• Traveling/Road trips
• Craft Beer