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Upon entering college, Eric and Brandi had no intentions of dating. They both planned on meeting new friends and beginning a new journey. During freshman orientation at California Baptist University the two were getting ready for “Clash Bash” an event taken place at Castle Park. The event called to wear outrageous outfits and that’s all Eric needed to hear, not expecting to be meeting a pretty girl that night. As the busses loaded, Brandi walked down the aisle in search of a seat. Coincidently, the seat next to Eric was the first available that she spotted and the two introduced themselves. Little did they know a “hello” would break the ice. When the busses arrived at Castle Park, they both went their separate ways. However, they left quite an impression on each other and Eric was determined to see her again.

Days later, Eric and Brandi reconnected and began sharing a mutual group of friends. They soon became inseparable and Eric was eager to grow their special friendship into something more. Brandi, on the other hand, was not ready for more than a friendship but that didn’t stop him from trying to pursue her. One day they decided to experience Knott’s Scary Farm. The two had a memorable night, although it still was not over. Before heading back to the dorms, they stopped for dinner and headed to Huntington Beach where they walked the pier and Eric asked, “So are we official now?” For the first time Brandi replied with a “Yes.”

Nearly five years later Eric was ready to demonstrate how much Brandi meant to him by arranging a very special moment. Months of planning were put into this perfect day. Brandi had planned on attending a “brunch” in San Diego with Eric’s family to celebrate his dad’s birthday. Little did she know that she would be answering the most important question of her life. The morning of, Brandi was excited to dress up for an event. The couple began to get ready then headed out to begin their day. While Eric was trying to stall, he took Brandi to Starbucks then for a walk around the city until he received a cue to head over to the established location. Eric and Brandi arrived at The Japanese Friendship Garden where their families were hidden, waiting for an unforgettable moment. The scenery was absolutely beautiful, so Brandi wanted to stop to take photos not knowing that Eric had arranged for a photographer to capture every aspect. As the photographer got into position, Eric took Brandi’s hands and began stating the speech he had prepared. In that moment, as happy tears ran down her eyes, Brandi realized what was happening. The two were caught in the moment and have no remembrance of what the speech stated; however, the only words Brandi remembers him saying are, “I love you and I want to love you for the rest of my life.” Eric got down on one knee and asked the most important question of his life. She said “YES!” and the family revealed themselves by applauding with excitement. Brandi was beyond grateful that Eric had invited some of the most important people in their lives. The night continued with an engagement dinner with their loved ones and the reminiscence of the perfect engagement.