Wedding

Funks Grove Chapel

Ceremony

Popcorn Hour

Funks Grove Nature Preserve

Reception

Our Wedding

Dawson and Alyssa attended the same high school and even shared a few classes, but they were never formally introduced. It wasn’t until Alyssa’s freshman year of college that their paths crossed again—this time at Chick-fil-A, where Alyssa had just started working and Dawson happened to be her first trainer. Despite this connection, they didn’t talk much beyond training, and Dawson eventually left for a different job while Alyssa continued working at CFA Fast forward to the summer of 2023: Dawson returned to Chick-fil-A, and the timing couldn’t have been better. Both of them chose to attend a work event in Ohio, and it was there that they truly connected and bonded over shared experiences. After the trip, they kept in touch, texting and getting to know each other better. A few months later, their friendship turned into something more—and they officially began dating.

How We Met

We got engaged on October 24th, 2024, at Funk's Grove Memorial Garden. Dawson’s mom had casually suggested we take some couple’s photos to capture the fall colors, especially since we had just celebrated our one-year anniversary. Although Dawson and I had talked about marriage before, we hadn’t set any kind of timeline, so I didn’t think much of it and happily agreed. We arranged a photoshoot with a family friend, but our original date ended up being rescheduled to the following week. As we wrapped up our session at the final location, the photographer asked Dawson if there were any specific poses he wanted. I jokingly asked, “What pose would you even want?”—since Dawson isn’t exactly one for pictures. That’s when he got to one knee and proposed. I was completely shocked. Little did I know, Dawson had secretly met with my parents weeks earlier to ask for their blessing, and he had even been browsing my Pinterest boards for ring inspiration. The only hint I’d ever given was that I wanted a gold ring—and he absolutely nailed it. With the help of his mom, he planned everything perfectly. It was the most beautiful, unforgettable day.

Our Engagement Story

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Registry

Please use the link provided below to access our wedding block rate! Rooms feature refrigerators and LED televisions. Wireless internet access (surcharge) keeps you connected, and a complimentary breakfast in the morning to keep you energized for the big day! The convenient location of this hotel is an 18-minute drive to the Ceremony location and 21-minute drive to the Reception location.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington

Travel

Things to Do

Alyssa & Dawson

Alyssa & Dawson

Photos