Erik and Gwynna’s story began in the most fitting way — on a party bus headed to Ames for the 2023 Iowa vs. Iowa State game. Gwynna and her roommates had organized the bus to cheer on the Hawkeyes, and through mutual friends (and a little fate), the two met somewhere between the music and game day excitement. Even though they both grew up in the Des Moines metro, their paths had never crossed — until that day. Erik says he knew from their very first date that Gwynna was the one. In early 2025, after Gwynna went ring shopping with friends, Erik secretly bought the ring. While she had a feeling a proposal was coming (Erik isn’t great at keeping secrets), she didn’t know the details. The big moment happened along the Des Moines River at the Simon Estes Amphitheatre. They were supposedly meeting his family for dinner when Erik suggested an out-of-character walk along the river — and Gwynna instantly knew. Soon after, he was down on one knee. What made it even more special was the thought Erik put into the entire weekend — from coordinating the surprise to celebrating afterward at Malo (where they had their very first date), followed by champagne with friends and a patio celebration at Stuffed Olive. Today, their life is just as full and fun. They’ve made their home in Ankeny, love spoiling their corgi, Buster, and are always on the go — whether it’s spending time with friends, making memories with family, or taking trips whenever they can. From a party bus to a riverside proposal, their story has always felt fun, intentional, and meant to be.