We're Getting Married!

We met unexpectedly in September 2016 when Jonathan was driving through Southern Illinois and decided to stop at a friend’s house where Desiree happened to be hanging out for the evening. Little did we know, this serendipitous encounter would lead to a life-long partnership.

A few months later, Jonathan returned to the area for, you guessed it, a race. Desiree graciously offered her extra bedroom, and we spent the weekend talking, laughing, playing games, and attending events. While watching our first race together, Desiree fell asleep while Jonathan made her sit through 9 hours of hot laps and qualifying. We should have known then it was love; Desiree returned with Jonathan for not one, but two more “action-packed” nights of dirt racing. As if the racing wasn't miserable enough, we decided to visit the Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Gardens one frigid, twelve-below-zero evening. Since that December, we stayed in contact and maintained our friendship. Jonathan returned to the area for work, but Desiree was oblivious that “the area” was often a several-hour drive. Over time, our friendship blossomed into the relationship we cherish today.

In December 2019, we returned to the Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Gardens like we have every year since we met. This time, Desiree’s sister Erika joined. Desiree was excited to show Erika all of the lights. Little did she know, Jonathan and Erika had a plan. Jonathan visited the Gardens the day before to scope out the perfect location. We entered the gardens and took a detour pretty quickly so Desiree could show her “the best picture spot.” Erika and Jonathan exchanged discreet eye contact, and we took some pictures. Then, Jonathan dropped to one knee and tied his shoe. Nah, just kidding. He popped the question! We’re engaged.