Johnny and Emmilyne first crossed paths at the Edison Lofts in downtown Raleigh. The two were both new residents at the apartment complex and lived on the same floor. After seeing each other in passing for a few weeks, Johnny and Emmilyne held their first conversation at an evening social the apartment staff organized for residents. Over the next month, Johnny extended invites to Emmilyne to everything from dinner to church. After spending time together, Emmilyne and Johnny quickly realized that this was the beginning of something special.

Johnny had a work trip planned in Las Vegas, Nevada and decided to capitalize on the last his few days out west. Johnny had Emmilyne meet him in San Diego, where her mother and sister live, for what she thought was a quick trip to see them. On the second night of their trip, the two ventured to Coronado Island for a date night. Johnny arranged a Gondola ride that included champagne. At the end of the ride, he asked Emmilyne for her hand in marriage. A hidden photographer caught the special moments. Emmilyne and Johnny then celebrated at a restaurant in downtown San Diego with their relatives!