Our first date was anything but traditional — and looking back, we wouldn’t have it any other way. We met at Ironside for axe throwing, where getting to know each other meant a little friendly competition and a lot of laughter. Kyle quickly realized that Hannah had an impressive aim, an even stronger arm, and a heart he couldn’t help but fall for. Somewhere between the bullseyes and the teasing banter, the foundation of something special quietly took shape. We were enjoying each other’s company so much that we weren’t ready for the night to end. Drinks followed, conversations deepened, and when Kyle walked Hannah to her car, the night ended with a kiss in the rain — the kind of moment you think only happens in movies. Date number three confirmed that there was something extraordinary, with karaoke and very memorable renditions of “I Believe in a Thing Called Love”, "Dr Love", and "At Last" sealed the deal.
Hannah had finally convinced Kyle to join her for her annual Fourth of July trip to visit family in Indiana — a place she calls her little oasis. What she didn’t know was that tucked in the back of the pickup truck sat a disassembled nine-foot skeleton… and a ring that was never more than an arm’s reach away. Kyle had been coordinating with her family for weeks, even scouting the perfect spot the day before they arrived. The day itself was filled with all of Hannah’s favorite things: a cozy brunch, time with family, and sunshine by the pool. That evening, they got ready to visit her cousins’ homestead. Upon arrival, Kyle was handed a beer — a harmless gesture that instantly sent him into quiet panic. Plastered across the can was a skeleton wearing a top hat and bow tie. The beer tasted terrible (a blessing in disguise), which gave Kyle the perfect excuse to claim he wasn’t feeling well. He insisted Hannah still go to dinner at The Italian House — something she always looks forward to — giving him the time he needed to set the scene. When Hannah returned, worried about how Kyle was feeling, she stepped inside and immediately heard their future first-dance song playing. She asked where he was, and was informed by her great uncle, “He’s out back waiting for you.” All that was visible was the glow of the fire pit, yet the song still audible. Then she heard him call her name just as the lyric “can you hear me say your name forever” echoed into the night. In the distance, two tiny red dots flickered — she followed those and the tone of Kyle's voice as he made small talk. Then the two red dots burst into fireworks, illuminating Kyle down on one knee. Beside him knelt a nine-foot skeleton, dressed in a custom top hat and bow tie, holding out a ring box. Yet again, it was unconventional, unexpected, and so perfectly them. They celebrated under the fireworks, went back inside to pop the champagne bottle, and called friends and family back home — marking yet another unforgettable moment in their story.