HOW KARA & RYAN MET:
Both Kara & Ryan worked at The CiberTerra Group (as they affectionately refer to the companies they worked for – The Summit Group, Ciber, and DigiTerra right out of college) in Indianapolis. They weren't really friends in Indy, but started becoming friends when they both moved to Chicago (one month apart). Then Ryan became 'the boy next door'.  After some time as neighbors and friends they started dating. The rest is history.

THE ENGAGEMENT:
Kara and Ryan were engaged on March 18, 2003.

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED:
While in Siesta Key, FL with both of their families and a few of their friends, Kara & Ryan took a walk on the beach Tuesday March 18, 2003 at night.

Ryan was talking about their relationship, how wonderful it was, etc.  There was actually a moment when Kara thought he was breaking up with her! 

Then Ryan stopped, got down on one knee, and asked Kara to marry him!  He then told her there was a catch… she couldn't tell anyone!  He wanted to wait until a dinner they’d planned with all of their friends and family that were in Siesta Key (Friday night – 3 days later).

They waited until dinner.  Ryan stood up and gave a toast and thanked everyone for coming and then sat down.  Everyone was disappointed, as they all thought that he had an announcement to make.  Then, after everyone had ordered, champagne glasses were brought out and as the waiter walked up with the bottles, Ryan and Kara stood up (for the second time) and Ryan made the announcement.

WEDDING DATE:
Kara & Ryan will be married on Saturday, August 28, 2004 at St. James Church (http://www.stjames-lutheran.org) in Chicago, IL.

RECEPTION:
The reception will be held at The Harold Washington Library (http://www.chipublib.org) in Chicago, IL.