We met a few times before we made anything of it. Years ago, we got introduced by a mutual friend, but Patrick was shy and didn't talk much. A year later, Patrick invited Mackenzie to a party at his house on the only 4th of July Patrick stayed in Marquette, Mackenzie said maybe but never showed up...oops. Later that year, Mackenzie noticed Patrick at the PEIF during NMU's Christmas break, and thankfully, he noticed her as well. Then one lucky night, Patrick and Mackenzie ended up at the same location and hit it off. Patrick asked Mackenzie on a date where Patrick ended up embarrassing himself by ordering breadsticks for a gluten-free girl but was forgiven for his mistake. Two weeks later, during a fun Rugby Banquet, Patrick asked Mackenzie to be his girlfriend on the way to the banquet! Well, you can guess the rest because here we are now, getting married!

Patrick outdid himself. This proposal was well planned, beautiful, and the most exciting weekend thus far. Patrick and Mackenzie planned a last-minute camping trip before the Michigan winter hit. We got lucky and found the last spot at the Platte River Campground in Traverse City. Due to Mackenzie's Social Work licensure exam, Patrick choose to plan the whole weekend...little did she know that Patrick had planned an important weekend. Thankfully Mackenzie passed her exam, and the fun weekend began. Patrick planned a hike to the top of a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. At the top of the dunes, Mackenzie was surprised by a BEAUTIFUL picnic. When she turned around, Patrick was down on one knee asking Mackenzie to be his wife. She said Yes, of course. Hidden in the bushes (or behind a dune) was Mackenzie's best friend and her family (basically Mackenzie's second family). It was the best surprise a girl could have asked for.