This is your typical "we met in college" story. My roommate and Reese were both from the same hometown, which led us to be at the same house for a party. The homeowners were from Mansfield as well - so we met many times at the same house where I eventually took over Reese's best friend and Best Man's role as his beer pong partner. Sorry, not sorry, Conner! We found out that we had several mutual friends in common seeing as our hometowns were only 20 minutes from each other, yet we were destined to meet 5 hours away in Lubbock, Texas!

It was my first time out of the country and I was SO EXCITED! When we landed on Sao Miguel Island, Reese's Aunt Sue, her husband, Horacio and Reese's dad, Mark picked us up from the airport and took us to Aunt Sue and Horacio's beautiful estate. We wanted to thank Aunt Sue and Horacio for being such gracious hosts by taking them to dinner. Mark recommended a steakhouse to which I responded "that's perfect!". When we were ready for dinner the next day, Reese asked to take a picture by the water fountain. I thought Aunt Sue was taking our picture until she held up a second phone and I hear his mom's voice say "awww". Confused, and talking through my smile, I ask Reese "is she taking a video?". I looked over and saw Reese down on one knee. Short and sweet, he said "Emily, I love you so much, will you marry me?" Out of COMPLETE SHOCK I said softly while crying "I hate you". Aunt Sue had to chyme in and said "we can't hear you what did you say?". I can barely catch my breath at this point but I said "YES"! Aunt Sue jumped behind the bar outside and pulled out chilled champagne and crystal glasses. We turned around and Horacio's family was there to congratulate us. Mark joked that "everyone on the island knew but you" since the island is very tiny. Oh, and the steak dinner was part of the plan the whole time.... it was the best I've ever had.