We’re saying “I Do!”

Brandy had heard of Benjamin in high school when he was dating a classmate of hers, but she had not officially met him yet. Then in 2009 while attending a reunion party she officially met him but he was still married to that classmate, therefore "off limits". She remembers going home that night after the reunion thinking and praying "Dear God, if that man ever becomes available, I sure hope he is meant for me. He is my idea of perfection, chivalry, and gentlemanly." Brandy and the classmate were only associates, not close friends or anything so the "code" did not apply. Fast forward 8 years later, on October 18, 2018 while out with some friends they met officially for the first time. Brandy learned that he was now available, made it known she was interested and remembered him from before. They got to know each other, and had their first date a few days later - fishing at Lake Fausse Point, and the rest is history.

Having discussed marriage during their 4 1/2 years of courtship, Brandy told Ben she expected to be married by their anniversary meeting date on 10/18/2025 which was the first Saturday for that date and would mark 7 years. Her favorite number. He said many times he would marry her one day to which she replied "but you have to ask me properly". Then while on a trip together in France in 2023, they picked out an engagement ring so as to have it properly fitted; plus diamonds are better in France. Then Ben waited for the perfect moment. He admitted later there were a couple times and places while in France he almost proposed, but the perfect spot was when they visited the Castle of Richard the Lionheart - Chateau de Beynac. The castle overlooks the Dordogne River and is a picture perfect setting in the month of April. Brandy kept waiting as they climbed the winding staircases to visit the various floors and areas of the castle, thinking "I bet that ring is in his pocket and this will be a good spot". However it wasn't until they got the very top that he pulled out the ring and asked for her hand in marriage to which she replied "Yes" of course.