Reina and her roommate Emmory invited some friends over for a game night on July 3, 2019. Since these were pre-COVID times, they told their friends "the more the merrier!" -- come one, come all! Reina's friend Chris made good on the offer and brought his roommate Cody, who sat next to Reina for the evening. They found out quickly that they both shared a love for Colorado, skiing, and summers in the mountains. Reina shared stories about her many cross country moves and Cody found himself drawn to her adventurous spirit. Cody commanded the room with his fun personality, intentional questions, and storytelling...and Reina couldn't help but take notice. Their first date was just a few weeks later on August 15, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Reina had planned to meet Cody's family in Austin to take the boat out for the day. But first, brunch! On the way to brunch, it was suggested that the group take a hike to an overlook of Lake Austin called Pennybacker Bridge. It was a pleasant hike to the top but little did Reina know, there was a plan unfolding around her. Cody found the (pre-selected) spot with a beautiful view and said the oh-so-subtle codeword 'Cardinal' -- which was Cody and Reina's family's cue to scatter. Cody got down on one knee to pop the question and it was an easy 'YES' from Reina. The two families popped champagne, and spent the day celebrating together.