we're getting married

The Rieses have a reputation for throwing legendary parties, and our engagement celebration was no exception. My boyfriend, Sam (now fiancé!), and his family went to extraordinary lengths to keep this incredible surprise a secret from me. Sam even bought old iPhones for my family and friends to spoof their locations on Find My Friends. Yes, old iPhones just to sign into their iCloud and leave at home—talk about dedication! Six months ago, he asked my parents for their blessing, promising, “This is the only time I’m going to lie to your daughter.” Every single person at the party was in on the surprise for months. What I thought was a July 4th party with a family photoshoot beforehand turned out to be something far more life-changing. Sam’s sentimentality was on full display when I saw the handcrafted scrapbook waiting on the rowboat. Titled Jenica & Sam - Our Story, it was filled with letters, photographs, Dave & Buster’s play cards, Disneyland pins, plane tickets, concert passes, and all sorts of mementos–revealing why he had carefully preserved everything over the years, knowing one day he would use it to propose. As I flipped through the pages, reminiscing all the moments that brought us to this milestone, Sam knelt down on one knee. After the most heartfelt proposal and a resounding "YES," our parents emerged from the dock to embrace us—a second surprise I never saw coming, as I had no idea my parents had been there the entire time!!! As we made our way back to the house, bursts of confetti rained down, and our closest family and friends were there to greet us with joyful congratulations. Waiting for me were dress options and a glam team ready for touch-ups (much needed after my uncontrollable happy tears). During this time, the event coordinators were busy transforming the setting. They swapped out all the July 4th decor I had seen earlier for personalized event essentials, such as matchboxes that read "Jenica & Sam – A Perfect Match". The attention to detail made everything feel so intentional and special. The celebration itself was lavish and exquisite. Guests enjoyed an incredible array of food and drink, including a sushi bar and menus that featured our favorite cocktails—lychee martinis and espresso martinis! The DJ ensured the dance floor stayed packed all night long, and glowing party favors added a playful touch to an already electric atmosphere. I’m still amazed at how flawlessly everything came together without me suspecting a thing. I’m deeply grateful to Randi, Dennis, and Sam for hosting the most spectacular celebration at their beautiful beach house in Westhampton and to all our amazing family and friends who made the journey there! July 6, 2024, was the most magical and memorable day of my life, surrounded by the people we love, celebrating our engagement in the most perfect way.