Alison and Winston first met in their hometown of St. Louis. They had both recently graduated and returned to St. Louis for their jobs. After a couple years of just being friends, Alison mentioned to Winston that she could use a date for her friend's upcoming wedding and Winston eagerly volunteered. Despite having hung out before, this time was different. Alison and Winston danced and talked all night and realized how much they enjoyed being together.   On a beautiful and sunny day in late spring, Winston asked Alison to marry him. While walking through Shaw Park, they came upon a pavilion where their friends, family and dog, Duncan, were all waiting for them. Knowing this was his big moment, Duncan, wearing a backpack with the ring, excitedly ran up to Alison and Winston. Winston took the ring from Duncan and got down on one knee to ask Alison to marry him.