We’re so excited to celebrate our wedding weekend with all of you! Join us in Waco for the Silos, Texas eats, rooftop views, and unforgettable memories. - Tara + Ryan
Tara & Ryan
Tara & Ryan
Our Story
How We Met
Three Weeks of Ghosting, a Lifetime of Love
Our story kicked off at my niece Caliana’s second birthday party. That’s where I met Ryan’s cousin, Emily—who, as it turns out, has a real talent for matchmaking. After the party, my sister Hannah pulled me aside and said, “Emily wants to know if you’re single—she has a cousin she thinks you should meet.” I gave her the classic sister side-eye and replied, “I’m not looking for anything right now… you know that.”
Fast forward a few weeks: somehow, thanks to my persuasive sister, I ended up on a group date. That night, we successfully escaped our Operation: Casino escape room (photo above), where Ryan asked me exactly one question—“So, you used to live in Chicago?”—and then spent the rest of the evening locked in an intense bromantic ping pong match with my brother-in-law, Jordan.
Then came a solo date. Followed by three weeks of total radio silence (we refer to this as his ghosting phase). And finally, on our next group outing, Ryan made a move so bold, so awkwardly unforgettable: He handed me his bowling ball and said, “Here, smell this. It’s cherry-scented.” And just like that, I knew he was the one.
The rest is awkward, hilarious, and completely unexpected history—and we wouldn’t change a thing.
Why Waco?
Bubble Wrap Adventures & Waco Wonders
For my birthday, we took our very first trip together to Waco, Texas—a dream destination for any HGTV fan. My family has long adored Fixer Upper, so visiting Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Silos felt like the perfect way to celebrate. Ryan, not knowing what to expect—loved every minute of it.
We explored the Silos, indulged in food truck treats, and fell head over heels for the Mexican ribs at Milo. We ran Jacob’s Ladder in Cameron Park, browsed the charming Fabled Bookstore, and even lined up early for the Magnolia tent sale. That’s where we found a gorgeous mirror and a cozy chair—too good to pass up.
But getting them home? That was a whole different adventure.
Shipping through UPS turned out to be three times the cost of the chair itself. Renting a car to drive back wasn’t ideal either. So, we got creative. A call to American Airlines revealed we could check the items as luggage—if we wrapped them well and paid a small oversize fee. Challenge accepted.
Armed with bubble wrap and determination, we packed the mirror and chair base (photo above), tucked the cushions into our suitcases, and crossed our fingers. When we landed in Cincinnati, we held our breath—and there they were, safe and sound!
Now, every time we see the chair (photo below) and mirror in our home, we’re reminded of that trip, the laughs, and how well we tackle the unexpected together.
Later on, when deciding on a wedding location, we saw an episode of Fixer Upper: Hotel 1928 and knew we’d found the perfect place to say "I do".
