After meeting in passing at a birthday party in the summer of 2016, Nathan sensed that there was something special about Courtney and vowed that if their paths crossed again, he would ask her on a date. It wasn't until three months later that fate worked its magic when a mutual friend asked them to join her on a hike the day after Thanksgiving. The next few days were filled with laughter, live music, and never-ending stories, and confirmed Nathan’s feeling that they were a match made by higher graces. Although they had only spent a few hours together, Nathan asked this near total stranger, who was already working wonders on his heart, on a date.

Knowing Courtney deserved a special proposal, Nathan coordinated a surprise engagement weekend getaway with several of Courtney's close friends in one of the most beautiful places in Colorado. Using the birthday of a mutual friend as cover, the same friend at whose birthday party they met, the group traveled to Twin Lakes, CO. They canoed all of their gear to a peninsula between the two lakes. On Saturday morning, while everyone was preparing breakfast (and secretly putting up engagement decorations), Nathan took Courtney out onto the lake in a canoe and asked the big question. Despite everyone knowing of these secret plans, Courtney was completely surprised and said YES! After the ring was out of the box, they returned to shore for champagne toasts, and had an unforgettable weekend with their friends. Although this special weekend was Nathan's idea, it would not have been a success without the effort of their many friends who made the weekend unforgettable. We're so thankful for everyone who joined.