Lamar and Bethany met in a small group bible study for young singles through Metro Community Church. They had never seen each other before, even though they both had been attending Metro CC for at least a year. Lamar had his eye on Bethany from the start and she had no idea. After getting to know each other through the group, Lamar decided to ask Bethany to coffee. They met at Starbucks where intentions became clear about wanting to date and important questions were asked and answered. Two weeks later the relationship became official.

Lamar and Bethany made plans to visit her parents the weekend of February 16th and Lamar told Bethany it was his intention to ask for her parents blessing on this trip. Little did Bethany know, once Lamar picked up her engagement ring, he couldn't wait to propose. He made a phone call to the Hyde’s in late January to ask for her hand and started making plans to pop the question . At the last minute God blessed us with a spring-like weekend in early February. Lamar made plans with Bethany to enjoy a Saturday evening sunset at Pere Marquette State Park. Bethany's sister Jayna and her boyfriend Joe were invited along to capture the moment with a camera, though Bethany thought it was just a double date. At sunset over looking the Mississipi River, Lamar got down on one knee and asked Bethany to marry him. And she couldn't wait to say "YES!"

We are so excited to celebrate the next chapter of our lives with you. See you in Alton!