When Ryan took a leap of faith and downloaded Hinge, Cassie was the first to like his profile. Keeping things exciting, Ryan kept Cassie on the edge of her seat and waited nearly a month before reaching out. But once they connected, sparks flew. Just days later, Ryan faced what was perhaps the most intense interview of his life—a 3-hour FaceTime with Cassie. This conversation led to their unforgettable 11-hour first date that same weekend. It was filled with laughter, competition, and fun—from "letting" Cassie win at Pitch and Putt golf by 1 point, to hitting balls at the driving range, to a fierce game of washers, and finally a delicious dinner at Maggiano's. Less than two weeks later, Ryan asked Cassie to be his girlfriend, and the rest, as they say, is history.

About a month before the proposal, Anna texted me about going to Grounds for Sculpture with her and her parents. I agreed, but a week before, she told me her parents couldn’t make it due to her mom's foot surgery. She asked if I still wanted to go, and I said yes. The morning of, Ryan seemed in a hurry to go to Trader Joe’s and the gym, leaving around 10:30am. My parents told me they were getting breakfast with friends and left the house. Anna FaceTimed me on her way (Ryan had asked her to, so I didn’t check any locations). Once we arrived at the Grounds, Anna took pictures of the map, which I found out of the ordinary. I was taking my time, showing her around and enjoying the scenery, while she was secretly freaking out, trying to find the spot Ryan had told her about. Eventually, she found it. Two workers suggested we check out a hidden sculpture but warned about ice. We walked through the trees, and I saw a sign with 5 facts about Grounds for Sculpture. Then, a few steps later, I saw a heart made of rose petals. I turned to Anna and said, “Wow, this would be such a cute proposal spot!” Then I looked to my right and saw a sign that said, “One final question, will you marry me?” Ryan appeared, along with my parents, Alex, and Colleen. It was a beautiful proposal overlooking the lake, with trees glistening in the snow and some of my favorite people around us. It was absolutely perfect. And yes, they totally tricked me!