In spring of 2021, Chris decided it was time to find a ring! He knew he wanted Yogo Sapphires, a unique sapphire gemstone mined in Chris' home state of Montana. With the help of his Mom, Mellda, who resides in Montana, he was able to get the ring he wanted in his hometown of Butte. He was able to incorporate a diamond from Chris' grandmother and bordered it by Yogos in a white gold band. Later that year, Chris asked Leigh's dad, Bob, for his blessing and Bob eagerly gave it. Bob noted that Deanne, Leigh's mom, would also give her blessing as well. Chris would later get Deanne's blessing. Chris' plan was to propose during the Labor Day weekend, when they would be at the Darling Family ranch. Chris had the bright idea of trying to get Leigh to go on a hike. Leigh was not amused and, if you know Leigh, once she makes up her mind, there is little one can do to change it. As a compromise, we went for a drive. On exceptionally short notice, Chris got Deanne's blessing that day. Leigh and Chris headed off. Shortly into the drive, Leigh spotted the ring box in Chris' pocket and the jig was up. Ever so relentlessly, Leigh wanted to know what Chris had in his pocket. So Chris, ever so romantically, pulled the truck over on the dirt road at the ranch and popped the question!

The Venue we have chosen is a very special place to us and we are excited to share it with you! Big Cove Ranch is a family owned property that Leigh’s Grandfather, Ned Darling, purchased when he retired in 1975. The Homestead, the original building on the property, was later renovated by Ned. Big Cove Ranch borders Kaskela Farms, which is located on the Deschutes River. Kaskela was purchased by Leigh's Great Grandfather, Roy Darling, with 4 associates and fellow outdoorsmen, from Portland Oregon. The Ranch is a working cattle ranch operated by the Darling Family where we spend many weekends working cattle, riding horses, hunting, fishing, hiking, and hanging out with the family. Our hope is that you enjoy celebrating our wedding, and you leave with wonderful memories of our special day. The Ranch is located between Madras and Maupin Oregon, south of Hwy 97.