HOW WE MET It all started 5 years ago while living in Naples. Brad, a mutual friend, constantly tried to play Cupid. We didn’t make it easy on him as we both clearly knew what he was up to. A few months later he was finally able to get us both in his office at the same time. We spoke for a little bit, exchanged phone numbers and it all flowed very easily from there. THE PROPOSAL On our second date Mariana asked if I would like to go with her to the Naples Botanical Gardens. I immediately agreed. Fast forward to 2020, while trying to think of a place where I could propose, these gardens popped into my head. They were a beautiful setting that meant something to the both of us. I asked her dad for his blessing and started to plan it out. Walked through the gardens one more time and knew I had found the spot. I would propose right underneath a row of arches with ivy and flowers hanging from it. I spoke with the garden’s manger and told him what I was planning. I also had a friend, Chris Synder, drive over to photograph the proposal. When the day arrived, I told Mariana I wanted to take her somewhere and wanted it to be a surprise. Once we arrived at the gardens, I started leading her to the spot I had picked. As we walked, I began to explain to her how the last time we had been here I wanted to kiss her but didn’t. I was too nervous then and here I was, once again, very nervous. I had a speech planned, I think I skipped most of it because then I was suddenly on one knee. I took the ring out and asked her to marry me. I see Camren on one knee and a rush of emotions came over me. I immediately said, “Yes”. I remember Camren started to put the ring on my finger. He then stopped and asked; “Wait. You said yes. Right?.” I repeated....” YES !” And followed my reply with.... “Are you sure?”. We both laughed and here we are today. Both so excited to start our lives together surrounded by our favorite people.