It was December of 2021, as Jills holiday trip to Maine was coming to a close, the only thing she knew vaguely was that Rob asked a few people to come to their house on New Years Eve.

She arrived home from Maine and she was very stressed about what was suppose to be a small get together turning large party. As Rob saw her getting frazzled, he started delegating and handing tasks over to friends that were attending. Of course eager to help, since they were all in on the surprise.

12 hours before Jill got on a plane to Maine on December 23rd, two of their friends came over and gave her some random reasons why we had to move the party. Jill said sure without two thoughts, but….this was part of their plan. Thank you Joey & Dayle.

Rob knew that if Jill was in Maine for the week, it gave him the perfect opportunity to talk to everyone, hide the ring and make the plans. Working from home together, he knew if she was home, she would catch on. He decided to NOT tell her parents until she got back to Florida knowing it would be impossible for her Mom to keep it from her for an entire week while she was home.

While she was running errands, he called her Mom and filled her in on his plan. She was thrilled.

The party was to start at 7:30ish. People started arriving promptly. Like really promptly. They all knew what was coming. Soon 9 pm was upon us and Rob told Jill he decided to do his New Year’s Eve Thank you/speech early since people would probably have other places to go. Before she knew it, everyone had already gone outside on the patio. With her wine and phone in hand to take photos, Rob started his speech and she wasnt paying attention.

Rob began to thank everyone. His family, his friends, and his partner. He then starts to include Jill. She had no idea what was happening because in the past, his speeches were meant to be from both of them.

It was at that moment when he puts his hand in his side pocket and when she looked up, all of their family had huge smiles on their faces holding hidden cameras. As she looked over at Rob, wondering what was happening.....

He was down on one knee. He then said, Will you marry me? In pure SHOCK! What she shrieked next was..... “Shut your face”, then TEARS and finally a YES!!

Rob and Jill had talked about a possible engagement for years. She always had told him, that he would never be able to surprise her and leave her speechless. Jills thoughts: Our engagement was the most perfect moment, in our home with our puppies and so many of our favorite people. Next he said, Not till 2024 :) and she replied, Then a dream beach resort weekend it will be. And so, here we are.

Photos

Our Engagement Photos

The Royal Family