It all started a decade ago... Cole had been pursuing Mikayla for quite some time prior to their first date but Mikayla had convinced herself she wouldn't date anybody younger than her and often didn't reply (little did she know what was coming :) ). On valentines day in 2014, Cole (14) had asked Mikayla (16) on a date to the movies (classic move, Cole ;) ). Mikayla said yes but told him they were just going as "friends." Prior to their first date, Cole had Mikayla's favorite coffee delivered while Mikayla was in weight training class in front of her entire class (this was also before Doordash and Uber eats were accessible). Mikayla fell in love with Cole from that night and quickly realized she wanted to be more than "just friends!" In one night, Mikayla & Cole had their first date and Mikayla met Cole's parents... things began to move fast but Mikayla knew something was different about Cole! From a "just friends" date to now the two of us planning our wedding and getting married, it's funny how God always has a plan and we're sure glad we trusted God with this plan!
Almost a decade later and Cole finally popped the question! Cole had been strategically planning this special moment for many months prior and despite Mikayla's constant asking of "when are you going to propose?" Cole knew he had a plan all along which included scouting out the perfect spot with his friends about a week before, coordinating travel plans/flights with Mikayla's friends that were getting flown in and of course purchasing the ring! The week leading up to the big day, Cole had coordinated with Mikayla's boss to ensure Mikayla had work off on Friday (10/21/22) - Mikayla thought nothing of it and was looking forward to a short work week. Cole had invited Mikayla over for dinner and margaritas at his house on Thursday (10/20/22) and to Mikayla's surprise she was greeted by 2 of her best friends from college (Danielle (bridesmaid) & Kylee (matron of honor)) once she opened the door to Cole's house! It was in that moment she knew something was off. Her friends told her they were visiting for an "early birthday celebration" but Mikayla knew that was not the case. The weekend went on & Mikayla's friends convinced her to get her nails done (again, something seemed fishy) but Mikayla's friends continuously reassured her that they had no idea of any proposal (liars ;) ). Saturday (10/22/22) - the big day came around and Mikayla, Cole & Mikayla's friends planned to go wine tasting in Sedona for Mikayla's early birthday celebration. On the way, Mikayla thought to herself "hmm, I should check my parents' location" and sure enough they were driving in the same direction as they were towards Sedona! Everything was clicking and making sense but Mikayla played it cool (however, secretly freaking out that this day had finally arrived). On the drive towards the winery, Cole made a quick stop at an overlook/short hike and insisted they check it out to see all the beauty Sedona has to offer. Cole's leading the pack and Mikayla's right behind him and what does she notice? A small box (coincidently similar to the size of a ring box)! Once getting to the top of the overlook, the group took some pictures and Cole hugged Mikayla and before she knew it; he was down on one knee, Mikayla's parents & photographer popped out of the bushes and everyone shouted: "Well, what do you say!?" And Mikayla shouted: "I SAID YES!!!" We did end up making it to the winery and enjoyed the beauty of Sedona for the first time together; and now that place holds a special place in our hearts. Although we wish we could have shared that moment with all of our family and friends; we're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in WA!