Welcome!

Well, let’s just start by saying we heard on the internet that we were a “perfect match”! Now, let’s speed up to about two-weeks later. Deries invited Autumn to a quaint New Orleans-inspired bar and restaurant called Dodies Cajun for drinks. Sitting entirely too close for a first encounter, the two shared their stories, by the bride’s recollection, over not-so-great drinks. They felt an instant connection despite coming from remarkably different backgrounds. However, when Deries threw an orange peel toward the bartender when the bartender wasn’t looking, Autumn began to have second thoughts. Likewise, when Autumn notified the bartender of what Deries had done, he too started to reconsider, reminding her with a grin that “snitches get stitches.” But they pressed on, growing more intrigued with each other, and within a few short months, they were officially a loving couple. Their differences strengthened the relationship, as each brought unique experiences and perspectives that elevated their bond. Living about five minutes away from each other, they continued to discover that they had all the ingredients for a great love story after spending countless hours together. Soon after, they took to the friendly skies and discovered a shared love for travel and adventure. Specifically, they found a special affection for the island of Jamaica. Yeah Mon! They promised to visit Jamaica annually and have kept that commitment so far. What a Ruff Start!

Two weeks before the Bride’s birthday, Deries started acting strange. He was overly concerned with what Autumn would wear on her birthday and even wanted a new suit for the birthday dinner date. When she showed him her dress for a formal Christmas party, he suggested she wear it for her birthday. Autumn was surprised he wanted something so fancy for “dinner” and concluded he must be planning to propose. So…she did what any promising Bride would- told her best friends, got her nails (twice), and tried to act normal—this was not a drill! December 8th arrived, and Deries was like a drill sergeant, ensuring they weren’t late. On the way, he called the restaurant and was unusually annoyed by typical Dallas traffic, confirming Autumn's suspicions. They arrived at a packed restaurant, had dinner, and headed home without a proposal. Legend has it, Autumn cried herself to sleep, wondering why he made her wear that evening gown. The next day, in jeans and a leather jacket, Autumn joined Deries, who was in a plaid shirt and jeans, for a comedy show. Afterward, Autumn, a sucker for Christmas lights, spotted a beautiful display nearby. Her holiday spirit quickly erased the previous night's disappointment. As they walked through the lights, Deries volunteered to take a couple’s photo and then asked them to take theirs. When Autumn turned around, Deries was on one knee, asking her to marry him. She said, YES!