It all started with a dating app (Bumble) when Ali decided to take a chance and swipe right on Dave. After a day or so of back and forth banter in the app, they decided they would meet up for a date. Fast forward a few days to a gorgeous summer night in June when the two decided to move up their scheduled dinner to an impromptu meet up at the local bar, Harvard Gardens, for drinks. After several hours at the bar, and Ali sufficiently interrogating Dave on his skiing ability, typical summer plans, and everything in-between, the two couldn't let the night end. As such, Ali and Dave made their way down the street to Ali's rooftop where they spent the rest of the night swing dancing under the stars. The rest is history!
The setting is Lake Winnipesaukee - Ali's favorite place in the world. Dave joined the Bragg family for a week vacation on the lake at Bald Peak Colony Club. The days leading up to the engagement were filled with boating, waterskiing, golf and amazing meals with friends and family. Ali had no idea what was in store for her come the weekend - a day of rolling surprises. It started that Saturday when Dave woke Ali up a bit earlier than usual and encouraged her to go on a run and take a shower (something he had never dared suggest before) so that they could spend some alone time and take an "Instagram picture" on the boat. Dave came prepared with mimosas, Go-Pro, and speaker to set the mood. Ali was at the front of the boat finding the right spot for the Go-Pro photo when Dave mustered up the courage to pop the big question. Heart beats sounding like a drum solo, she said yes! First, and biggest surprise of the day - check! Shortly thereafter, another boat came storming in with the Braggs and Murphys cheering in celebration. They rafted up and after some hugs, tears, speeches and more champagne toasts, the two families reveled in the moment. A truly wonderful way to spend the happiest moment in Ali's and Dave's lives to-date. What's that sound? More cheering? In comes surprise #3! About 45 minutes after the families arrived, a massive pontoon boat brimming with love, gifts, and packed coolers pulls up with 10 of Ali's best friends screaming at the top of their lungs. Her reaction was exactly what everyone involved could have hoped for. The three boats and 25+ people had an incredible lake day followed by a cookout, yard games, and a fire pit (Ali's favorite kind of day). Ali and Dave could not stop smiling! A great start to the life they've dreamed of since that impromptu date at Harvard Gardens. (Special thanks to the Murphys, Braggs, and Lincolns for helping pull this off!)