Jackie and Christian have been inseparable for almost a decade. Their story kicked off on the first day of sophomore year at St. Charles North High School when Jackie sat next to Christian in gym class. They became good friends, but it wasn’t until senior year that things really started to click. Attending homecoming and prom together, they spent their last year of high school growing closer, building a bond that carried them into the summer before college.

Unsure of what the future held, Jackie and Christian went off to different colleges. Jackie traveled miles to watch Christian play baseball, and Christian made sure to surprise Jackie for her birthdays and holidays. Despite the distance, they always found a way to reconnect during college breaks, picking up right where they left off. Over the years, they celebrated anniversaries 6, 7, and 8, growing stronger together.

In September 2023, Christian took a big step by visiting the Van Dyck household With flowers and cigars in hand, he sat down with Bob and Susan to ask for their oldest daughter’s hand in marriage. The night ended with a champagne toast, kicking off their engagement.

On December 23rd 2023, a Chicago art gallery was turned into a stunning tribute to their eight-year relationship as the walls were covered in photos of Jackie and Christian. Jackie had no idea what was coming as Christian led her to the gallery and got down on one knee and popped the question.