Some families are brought together by carefully planned paths. Others come together because of a single moment that quietly changes everything. For Chris and Kathryn Vish, it was a chance meeting at a real estate recruiting event in late 2019, one that neither of them could have predicted would shape the life they share today.

Kathryn will be the first to admit that she didn’t like Chris at first. After sharing a workspace, friendship came next. Then a business partnership. And eventually, a marriage that feels, in hindsight, exactly right. “Thankfully, I was at the right place at the right time to meet this lady,” Chris says. “Kathryn is spectacular. She can make any house a home, she has the best sense of humor, and is always thoughtful of the entire family.” Kathryn, in turn, admires Chris’s determination, consistency, and quiet attentiveness. “He’s always surprising one of us with something he thinks we’d like or making our favorite dishes,” she shares. They’ll celebrate their three-year wedding anniversary on January 27, 2026.

Together, they are raising a lively blended family that includes six children, each deeply known and celebrated for who they are. Logan Vish, 29, is the oldest and is engaged to his fiancée, Jacquelyn Ostreich. The kids still at home are Elle Syracuse, 15; Eve Syracuse, 13; Torin Vish, 10; Samson Syracuse, 10; and Tyron Vish, 8. With a full house and full schedules, life is busy, energetic, chaotic, and filled with movement, laughter, and connection. They always wanted a bigger family and now they have one!

Music, sports, and creativity weave through the Vish household. Elle Syracuse has played the viola for the past five years and is also part of a competitive dance team, balancing music and movement with ease. Eve Syracuse plays the violin and has recently discovered a love for cross country and track. Torin Vish plays football on the offensive line and wrestles, while Tyron Vish anchors the defensive line in football and also wrestles. Samson Syracuse stays active with U13 Brighton Soccer, wrestling, and is learning how to snowboard this year.

When asked what they admire most about their children, Kathryn and Chris light up. Tyron is their “tell it like it is” kid funny, inquisitive, and refreshingly honest. Samson shines as an athlete but also surprises everyone with his artistic side, especially his love for sketching. His bond with Torin and Tyron is something the family treasures deeply. Torin is the outgoing one, always offering a hug or a friendly hello. “We joke that he’s going to be mayor someday,” they say, laughing. Eve is thoughtful and expressive, known for writing heartfelt cards and jokes, with a big personality they’re certain will lead her somewhere special. Elle is their fearless adventurer, always willing to try something new, whether she’s baking, playing music, dancing, or reading. The kids have such a high energy dynamic, it’s so rewarding to see them interact and laugh.

The Vish family moved to Oak Pointe in January 2022, purchasing a home that needed quite a bit of love. While there’s still more to be done, they’re deeply grateful for how far they have moved it,  it’s constant energy and chaos, but it’s a time they will always cherish. “We’re thankful our kids can finish out their school years here,” they share. Their home has become a place of gathering, especially during the holidays. Christmas often means full rooms and shared meals, while spring, summer, and fall bring hosting opportunities that take full advantage of their outdoor space.

Family time is a true non-negotiable. Dinners around the table, vacations up north, showing up for one another’s sporting events, and celebrating birthdays together are all part of the rhythm of their life. “These years will be over before we know it,” they explain. “So we really try to make the most of our time together.”

Professionally, Chris and Kathryn co-manage Vish Real Estate Partners in Brighton, working with more than a dozen agents across Southeast Michigan and hundreds of agents in Florida with their partner there. Business puts them in front of people, but their involvement in the community runs much deeper than business. Chris gives back by coaching with the Brighton Youth Wrestling Club and networking with local businesses. Kathryn regularly plans and volunteers at school events, participates in PTO, and serves on the board for the Women’s Council of Realtors. Presence matters to them, at home, at school, and in the community.

They’ve also navigated meaningful challenges together. Early on in their relationship, Torin faced significant medical issues, an experience that could have pulled them apart but instead became a galvanizing moment. Kathryn’s steady support during that season became a source of strength for Chris. “In challenging times, I focus on how important our family and Kathryn are,” he says. “Nothing would be worse than losing them. So we just figure it out together.”

Looking ahead, their vision is rooted in values rather than milestones. They hope for a future filled with grandchildren and children who take pride in doing the right thing and honoring their parents wherever life takes them.

And for anyone new to the neighborhood, their message is heartfelt and reassuring. “It’s not a trick, everyone really is this nice here,” Chris says. “Don’t be afraid to say hello or shake a hand. There are some wonderful people here in Livingston County.” The Vish real estate team has moved hundreds of families into the area, but only a handful have left it.

After all, they know firsthand how one small moment, one introduction, one conversation can change everything.