Unknown to Ali, TJ had procured the perfect diamond ring in advance of work travel to Paris. Looking to take advantage of the opportunity, TJ convinced Ali to meet him abroad so they could return to their previous countries of study for a two week vacation, Italy and Germany respectively.

After spending some time in Milan and Fiorenzuola under the care of the Pighi family, they headed to Venice on their way to Germany. A surprise introduction to Manu's (Ali's host brother) girlfriend Costanza (a venecian native) meant a caring and knowledgeable tour guide.

On the final evening in Venice, after a great dinner on the waterfront, Costanza brought Ali and TJ to "Punta della Dogana", a peninsula that offered a breathtaking view of the city under a full moon at midnight. Without a soul or sound around, other than the calm water, Ali & TJ held each other and took in the moment.

"What do you think?" TJ asked.

"I've never seen anything so romantic in my life.. I don't know if it could get any more romantic" Ali exclaimed.

TJ stepped back grabbing her hands to say a few kind words and went down on one knee to tell her how much she meant to him, to which Ali was completely flabbergasted. She shook her head in disbelief, but eventually provided a resounding "Yes". Ali and TJ then ran off with Manu and Costanza to find a proper Pub to celebrate. This celebration extended into the wee hours of the morning. Their trip continued through Germany where they met up with friends at the Oktoberfest excited to share their news.

TJ and Ali first met through friends during a weekend getaway in Gatlinburg, TN. TJ was there for some hiking and socializing. Ali had just moved to Cincinnati a month prior and decided to join a few friends last minute. She arrived later in the evening when the festivities were already well on their way. TJ danced and sang merrily a top a table while sporting cowboy boots and a cowboy hat, and had seemingly lost his shirt. While it may not have been love at first sight, it was certainly a moment that would start their adventure together.