He really got me! Joel had been planning this proposal for a couple months, and I had no clue. As we are in a long-distance relationship, we plan out weekends in advance. Joel told me he wouldn't be around one weekend because he was going on a men's retreat. This was the weekend before my birthday and a Thanksgiving trip to Hawaii with his parents. Since I knew I wouldn't be seeing him, my Oregon family (who was in on it) planned a birthday party for me.

I woke up to my now bridesmaid, Micah, handing me a "Birthday BINGO" card that involved me completing special tasks. Many were small and random, like "go to Safeway and buy $8 worth of food", "do a 10-min ab workout", and others were "get a mani/pedi for Hawaii" and "go to Sorosis Park for a 'mother/daughter' photo shoot". It was the perfect gift for me: task-oriented and kept me busy, so I wouldn't get suspicious. At one point, I told Micah, "I really wish Joel were surprising me this weekend, but I know he isn't because he texted me a pic of him on his way to the retreat." (Well played Joel). I found out later that my thoughtful fiancé had taken a selfie in the car with his guy friends two weeks before - just to make sure I wouldn't clue in.

Around 3:30, Micah dropped me off at the park and said, "Get out of the car". A little thrown off, I said "What?", to which Micah replied, "Just get out of the car and go over there." So I didn't ask questions, and I got out of the car and walked towards the center fountain at the park. Micah sped off, and out from behind the fountain was my love holding roses and a ring, followed by one knee and "Will you marry me?". It was better than I ever could have imagined, and I can't believe I get to spend the rest of my life with this guy!

Meanwhile, my Matron of Honor Sarah was hiding behind a trash can taking pictures and captured some amazing moments and engagement photos!

J&C

Wedding Day

4:00 PM

Wedding

Reception