I was living in Palm Beach Gardens at the time in what was otherwise a bachelor pad equipped with outdoor tiki bar and hot tub. As one would expect, it was host to an array of recurring gatherings and parties filled with a growing group friends including the popular "Burger Wednesday". There was always a pretty open-door policy that welcomed adding new people to the mix. Our relationship didn't begin until 2014, but it was back in the summer of 2012 when she was first mentioned to me. I could tell she was someone who would have fun and get along with everyone. In truth, the words I heard that described her echoed my own description for an ideal match and came to find that I couldn't have been more right. Within some time, she would eventually come be a part and join in as a regular of our group. The friendship grew beyond either of our expectations. Before I could even realize it, I had already fallen for her. As soon as it started, when the timing was right, it was known to both of us that this was for real. Through good times and bad, we have come together on this journey that has been nothing short of amazing. We traveled throughout Florida, the Northeast, and even to Las Vegas, which has become a memorable tradition for us, all within the first year. Time was flying by as we faced an important decision. I was being laid off in the banking industry, and it was time for both of us to move on to the next career step. We were both on the same page for two things: to move together and to somewhere new and outside of Florida. We discussed and debated the pros and cons, wants and desires developing and narrowing down a list of potential options. When it came to decide, we both agreed on Colorado and set out by Oct. 2015. Our new start only served to bring us closer together. From all of that, it was clear to me that this was the relationship I wanted to last.

It all started out as a “Christmas gift” from Randy's mom and stepdad (Pat and Larry). Randy and I were gifted a reservation at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant located in the Eiffel Tower of the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. I placed "Christmas gift" in parentheses because it was actually Randy’s plan to propose there all along, and they planned this together so I wouldn't suspect anything (clever). Fast forward to December 29, 2016: The day started off with an incredible morning at the spa with Randy's mom (sneaky), followed by plenty of gambling and fun. As we were getting ready for dinner, I remember thinking it was strange that Randy decided to shave that night, after a week into our vacation (and out-dress me). So, naturally, I totally called him out on it, but he played it off pretty well! After we got the the restaurant, we were seated at an incredible table next to the window, with a perfect view of the Bellagio water show. We had an amazing first two courses, along with a bottle of wine. I remember I kept telling Randy how blown away I was and couldn't imagine a more perfect night (obviously, I was wrong). As we were waiting for dessert, Randy and I were talking and sipping wine. Then it gets a little embarrassing for me when a server placed a plate between us (mind you, I am fully expecting and looking forward to my creme brûlée at this point). So, I glance over and notice it was definitely NOT my dessert. It definitely took me longer than I care to admit to realize that the plate was covered with rose petals, an Eiffel Tower ring box, and the words "Will You Marry Me?" written in chocolate syrup. As soon as I processed what it said, I looked over at Randy and he was down on one knee. To this day, we aren't sure if I even said yes right away because it was such a whirlwind (and there was lots of wine!) But it was easily the most romantic and incredible night I have ever experienced, and I truly cannot wait for June 23. <3 G