The quote from The Tempest, “I would not wish any companion in the world but you” is so fitting for Bill and Ilene’s love story. It’s so fitting that Ilene included it in her vows. Their wedding was today at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (see how it all fits together?) and I’m writing this while I’m still filled with love and Molly Wellmann’s “Teddy Love Punch.” Yes, the best bartender in America made a signature drink for the wedding, and named it after the dog with the sexiest snarl in America, Teddy. You can see Bill and Ilene’s canine companion in the photo gallery.
I’ve been friends with Ilene for years. I interviewed her for a story. I can’t remember the details, but I know we talked about food and she was wearing a bejeweled caftan. A bejeweled caftan! How could we not be friends? Bill and my husband, Chris were in the same Leadership Cincinnati class. So when we put it together that Bill and Ilene were together, we said “of course these two are a couple!” Chris even sang in today’s wedding. The couple wanted “Simply the Best” for the wedding processional. Not the Tina Turner version, they wanted the one from the show, “Schitt's Creek.” Look it up if you’re not familiar, it’s as sweet as peaches.
Spend half a second with Bill and Ilene and you know they are meant to be together. When I took these engagement photos I asked them to tell me about their first date, and the proposal. Get ready to swoon…
Ilene: We met online and texted and emailed for a bit. We totally clicked conversationally, and when we decided to meet in person our first date was dinner at Sotto. I let Bill pick the restaurant. He got there before I did, and when I arrived, the first thing I noticed was his incredible smile.
Bill: Choosing the restaurant was a bit daunting given that Ilene is a food writer, chef, and retired caterer. However, the choice of restaurants was perfect, the table was in the best location possible, and Ilene ordered expertly.
*Ok, I’m going to interrupt this story to tell you people who won’t give online dating a chance… see what you could be missing?!! Alright, time to fast forward to the proposal. I’ll set the scene: it’s two years to the day of their first date. Bill takes Ilene back to Sotto, and even gets the same table they shared on their first date.*
Bill: Getting a reservation at Sotto is difficult in the first place, and getting the same table was challenging. To seal the deal, I showed up a few hours early to give the hostess a giant candy ring and explained my plan. By the time Ilene and I were seated, every one of the servers knew what was going on and were eagerly awaiting the proposal.
Ilene: It’s a good thing I said “yes.”
We are all glad you said “yes.” Taking your engagement photos was an honor, being your friend is a gift.
