Clear Cut Couples: Ali and Zak

Zak and Ali originally met freshman year of college at Carthage! Ali transferred out to Loyola University Chicago to pursue a nursing degree, and ended up crossing paths with Zak when they were both juniors while he was in the city for a concert! For their first date, he took her to her favorite sushi restaurant in Chicago, Jellyfish! Since then, they have been together for over five years!

They have shared so many incredible memories over the years! When we asked Ali about some of the highlights, she said “The whole relationship has been a highlight! We’ve managed to do a lot and see a lot these past four years. I’d say the best part has been watching us grow as a couple and as individuals. Zak is the most supportive and nurturing person I've ever encountered. After having our son in 2019, it seems like life really has just fallen in place for us. I can’t put into words the amount of love I have for our little family.”

Zak proposed at Ali’s favorite restaurant Farmhouse on North in Barrington, Illinois on August 15th. It’s a small, intimate farm to table restaurant with the most beautiful patio. He even managed to get the whole wait staff in on it.

For the most part, it was a surprise! Ali knew it was coming in the next year, but she had absolutely no idea it would be coming in a couple months. She said, “I just about died and went to heaven when I saw my ring- it was everything I wanted and more. The best part was when he showed me our son's birth stone nestled into the band. Beyond special.”

They are planning for a Summer 2022 wedding! Congrats you two, we are SO happy for you!