The beginning of our story certainly isn't the most traditional. After Ainsley graduated college, she was drawn to travel and explore, as most young 20-somethings are. A very fateful set of events led to Ainsley staying in the same house with Shay, in a ski town in Colorado, both very far from our hometowns. Knowing that falling for your roommate is frowned upon by most, we were cautious at first, but the strong connection between us was undeniable. We quickly became best friends, fell deeply in love with one another, and the rest is history.

We decided to take a road trip just before Ainsley's 23rd birthday. We were craving some time in the woods, camping, and connecting with one another and nature. We stopped to camp for a few nights at Great River Bluffs State Park, a beautiful park with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley. When we arrived, Shay suggested we wake up early and hike out to an overlook to watch the sunrise over the valley. So we set our alarm, woke up bright and early, packed some snacks and a picnic blanket, and we were on our way. After a short hike in the dark, we found the perfect spot to settle in. We spread out our blanket, and were settling in just as the first light of day was beginning to appear. Just as the sun began to make it's way above the horizon, Shay turned to Ainsley, got down on one knee, and proposed. It was such a beautiful, romantic moment, Shay could not have planned it any more perfectly.