Enter Hinge, the digital matchmaker. Picture two 34-year-olds navigating the intriguing landscape of online dating—one exuberantly embracing the prospect of new connections and dates, the other cautiously optimistic yet willing to explore. Ryan sent a virtual rose to Ashley on the app, a gesture initially overlooked but enough to spark Ashley's curiosity. Despite her initial nonchalant response, she found herself repeatedly drawn to his picture and warm smile. After a month, Ashley finally reciprocated, leading to an engaging conversation that culminated in a decision to meet for a coffee date within days. The coffee date unfolded predictably—Ashley, animated and talkative, while Ryan, the attentive listener. Recognizing the limitations of conventional coffee outings, Ryan proposed a second date with a promise of something more exciting. To Ashley's surprise, he unveiled his '64 Thunderbird and suggested a drive-in movie night. Enthusiastically agreeing, Ashley was swept away when Ryan started the car, playing a 1950s classic playlist that mirrored her love for vintage movies and music. As they cruised to the drive-in, Ashley couldn't contain her excitement, repeatedly declaring it the best date she had ever experienced. Despite her enthusiasm, she strategically placed a blanket between them in the car—her way of signaling a desire to take things slow. However, the night solidified their connection as they discovered shared interests in spontaneous adventures, waterfall excursions, swing dancing, and a mutual love for the nostalgia of yesteryears. Fast forward to the following summer, where Ryan and Ashley found themselves embarking on a whirlwind cross-country adventure to Montana, set to unfold at Ryan's family ranch near Yellowstone. The elusive "M word" had lingered in their conversations for months, setting the stage for Ryan's meticulously planned proposal that would showcase his flair for the dramatic. The pivotal day commenced with a Cave Tour at the Lewis & Clark caverns, momentarily dampened by an unexpected rain shower on the way home. As doubts crept in, nature provided a divine intervention—the rain subsided, leaving behind a magnificent rainbow that seemed to touch down on the far corner of the ranch. Seeing this as a cosmic green light, Ryan seized the moment. With the flair of a cowboy poet, Ryan and his brother-in-law, Jury, swiftly saddled two horses, instructing Ashley to don something cute for an impromptu photoshoot. Armed with his ukulele, Ryan and Ashley raced against the setting sun to reach the summit of a butte that overlooked the expansive valley below the ranch. Against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, the duo posed for a few photos before Ryan initiated a surprise video recording. Strumming Keith Urban's "Making Memories of Us" on his ukulele, he artfully transitioned into a heartfelt promise of undying love. The awkward charm peaked as he attempted (unsuccessfully) to discreetly produce the ring. Finally, dropping to one knee, he proposed, leaving Ashley momentarily speechless. In that moment, surrounded by the Montana landscape and the echoes of a heartfelt serenade, the two embraced the beginning of a new chapter in their shared journey.