Chicago Fall Engagement Session at Museum Campus | Maggie & John

It was bitter cold for this Irish-loving couple during their fall engagement session on Chicago's Museum Campus—but Maggie and John didn’t let that stop them. They snuggled in close, laughed often (the best way to stay warm, if you ask me), and fully embraced the moment as we took in the beauty of the Chicago skyline. Cold hands, warm hearts, and a whole lot of joy.

Their story is one of timing, friendship, and a little bit of fate.

Maggie and John first met back in 2016 while taking part in The Rose of Tralee—he won the male award, she won the female award, and the two of them ended up meeting on a float during a midnight parade. If that doesn’t sound like the opening scene of a movie, I don’t know what does. At the time, though, their connection stayed firmly rooted in friendship.

And that foundation mattered.

Over the years, Maggie always admired John’s sense of humor—the way he could make her laugh no matter the situation. John, in turn, was drawn to Maggie’s incredible ability to make everyone around her feel comfortable and at ease. Those quiet appreciations were building something solid long before romance entered the picture.

That spark finally ignited in 2023 when they met up in Italy for the Ryder Cup. Something felt different this time. The dynamic shifted, the timing aligned, and suddenly the idea of “more” made perfect sense to both of them.

With an ocean between them—John in Ireland and Maggie in Chicago—they chose intention. They made their relationship a priority, planning regular trips back and forth, showing up again and again for each other. Distance didn’t slow them down; it strengthened what they were building.

That commitment led to an engagement at The Masters in April 2024—an unforgettable moment marking the start of their next chapter.

Watching Maggie and John together, especially on a freezing Chicago day, it’s clear: this is a love built on laughter, deep respect, and choosing each other—no matter the miles, the timing, or the temperature.

I am so excited to celebrate with you both next spring!