Carter had a plan in mind for the day he wanted to propose to Keleigh: November 30, 2024. It was a Saturday, far enough from the holidays that it would always be a special day just for them. What he didn’t know was that this day would also bring the first snow of the season.

Carter took the day off from work and dropped Keleigh off, telling her they'd be going on a date when she got home later that evening. Keleigh had no idea anything was amiss—she was in for the sweetest surprise. When she returned home, there was a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a card waiting for her, with Carter letting her know a surprise date night was in store.

They made their way to a charming French restaurant in Parkville, MO, where they indulged in a delicious meal, including escargot and a bottle of wine. After dinner, Carter casually suggested a walk along the riverfront (still no suspicions on Keleigh’s part, of course!). When she asked if she could bring a blanket, because it was a chilly 20 degrees outside, Carter assured her that the walk would be worth it.

As they strolled along the riverfront, enjoying the evening, they stumbled upon a little gazebo, completely lit up with Christmas lights. The moment couldn’t have been more perfect! Carter asked Keleigh if she’d like to take a few photos together, to which she happily agreed. Setting the phone on self-timer, they snapped a few selfies, and just as the last photo was about to be taken, Carter got down on one knee, pulled out the light-up ring box, and asked Keleigh to spend forever with him.

The snow gently falling, the Christmas lights twinkling, and the man of her dreams on one knee—Keleigh said yes, and they closed out their evening at the place they first met: Blarney Stone!

After the Party