May 19, just a few days after my birthday, became the day to celebrate my 21st with friends and family. In the morning, my friend Claudia and I had plans. She mentioned an appointment but kept the location a secret. Quickly, we got ready and headed out, ending up at a nail salon.

Claudia and I had a blast getting our pedicure and manicure. As we finished, ready to pay, they asked me to sign in. Confused, I entered my phone number, and to my surprise, the employees exclaimed that I was their the hundredth customer. Therefore, I received a free $100 certificate to their nail salon to pay for our nails and a gift card to one of my favorite stores to shop at, Francesca’s. I could not believe it! I explained that I had never won a raffle like this and we drove to go shopping.

On the way to the mall, I called my mom and Robbie separately to share the news with them! We used the gift card at the mall, buying a new dress. Back at my apartment, I got ready because Robbie and I planned to go to dinner together. As I finished my hair, there was a knock at the door, and there stood Robbie with a limo. I was shocked!

The first thing I asked was if Robbie paid for the whole limo, and he explained that our friends pitched in for a trip to vineyards in Grand Haven. He even stated who was all coming and how much everyone paid. In the limo, Robbie said the driver was a bit mean, but I didn't believe it until he scolded us for talking too loud.

As we drove a "unique" way to Grand Haven, the limo suddenly pulled over, and the driver claimed that the check engine light come on. At this moment, Robbie started to get very nervous about missing our plans. The driver called “dispatch” and said we had to park at a public beach trail until a mechanic arrived.

Getting out of the car, the driver popped the hood of the car and said it might be a while. Robbie began acting very anxious and asked if we could take a walk while we waited because he was very upset about being late for our plans. I said yes and made sure to remember to grab my purse out of the limo thinking the driver might leave. Robbie and I walked quickly down the path and I kept stopping him, worried that we should be helping the limo driver. As we reached the beach, Robbie got down on one knee and proposed. It was the easiest and most blessed “Yes” I have ever had to say to Robbie and the Lord’s will for marriage.

After the proposal, we walked back, and I explained that this was the best day ever! I won a raffle by receiving a gift card and Robbie proposed to me! Then, Robbie confessed the gift cards were pre-bought for me by him, not a spontaneous win. The limo was also ours alone, and we headed to Noto's, a restaurant in Grand Haven. We enjoyed our time together and then prayed a holy hour at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church after dinner.

The limo driver explained that we had one more stop, and we drove to a house. Here, we were surprised by close family and friends at an Airbnb nearby! It was the most wonderful experience ever, and it felt like a dream come true!

R&C

Ceremony

Reception