It all started with a simple pickup line and a strong commonality... Hating the Hawkeyes. Once Maria heard that pickup line from DJ she knew he was the one for her and the rest is history.

The two began texting back and forth before finally deciding to meet up and what better place for these two to meet than a country concert. If you know Maria and DJ you know besides the two both loving sports the two also avid country music fans, thus meeting at a Jon Pardi concert seemed like a no brainer. After that night DJ sure was "Head over boots" for Maria. From then on between more country concerts, Iowa State tailgates, trips back and forth from Sioux City to Minneapolis their love grew over many months and many many miles but one thing was certain they knew they were meant to be with one another. For months DJ had been planning how he could make asking Maria to marry her beyond special and what better way, then with a walk on the beach on a tropical island in the Dominican Republic. Finally the big day was here, the plan was in place and the walk on the beach had started. DJ thought he was being so smooth by tricking Maria to look out at a huge wave and quickly got down to ask the big question and say the big speech he had prepared. As soon as she turned around they both were overwhelmed with emotion and of course this big speech he had prepared was lost and all he could muster up was four words... "Will you marry me?" Spoiler alert.. she said yes!

The two are excited to celebrate with all of their loved ones on November 16th! Let the celebration begin!!

Things to Do

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City

Buffalo Alice

The Warrior Hotel, Autograph Collection