So after our second time ring shopping in September, my mind was made up, “Yep, I’m doing this.” And so I went back and bought the ring… or at least I thought I did. Turns out the lady helping me through the process thought I was just wanting the diamond. Just the rock. No band, no setting, rookie move right (it was my first time). So, after talking to them nicely of course, I was told that next time I come back the ring will be complete, which was humbling, but we got it figured out. But getting up to Atlanta without my travel agent (Hope) knowing wasn’t going to be easy, but it’s a good thing I’m sneaky! Then came planning the proposal, which was way harder than expected because she suddenly became the busiest person on earth. Every time I had a date in mind, she had something scheduled. I had to secretly help reschedule a thesis meeting (shoutout Dr. Spray) and even text Lily to help cancel a girls’ trip. I was out here doing side quests just to make this happen. I also tried to keep it small and intimate… which did not work at all because we have the best, biggest group of people ever. So instead, it turned into this huge celebration with all our friends and family, which honestly made it even better. The day of, I told her we were just going to dinner and then on a sunset drive. She definitely had her suspicions, but she went with it. When we got there, there were blankets, pictures, and the whole setup (huge shoutout to Sarah and Mason for making it look amazing). I told her I’d always love her and protect her, and then I got down on one knee… …and I’m pretty sure we both blacked out immediately after that. What I do remember is that it was 18 degrees—like, actually freezing—and somehow she took her coat off for pictures and didn’t get feeling back in her thumb for three days. Totally worth it, apparently. The ring looked incredible, she said yes (big win), and then we got to celebrate with everyone we love. Best day ever. - Braden

We met on spring break in March 2023. I already knew his brother, Evan, but somehow had never met Braden. During that trip, we spent time together, and I quickly noticed how kind and genuinely gentlemanly he was. And if you know, you know—the moment he opened the rice cakes, I was sold. It was the little things throughout the trip that showed me exactly what kind of man he is. And not to mention... I thought he was VERY cute (and still do!!) I remember finding myself secretly hoping we’d go back the next day just so I could get a little more time with him. I was fully convinced he was NOT interested, but that didn’t stop me from wanting to be around him any chance I got. We stayed friends for a few months before going on our first official date. Then, on September 16th, 2023, he asked me to be his girlfriend in Jordan-Hare Stadium, and the rest is history. - Hope