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meet us in banner elk

Collin Dorlan

and

Savannah Kern

April 18, 2026

Banner Elk, North Carolina
13 days13 d15 hours15 h44 minutes44 min16 seconds16 s

How We Met

It all began in November of 2019 at East Tennessee State University. We were both wide-eyed freshmen, navigating college life and finding our way—when fate stepped in through a mutual friend. Savannah's freshman roommate, Kentley Nelson, introduced us, and from that moment on, our story started to unfold. What began as a simple friendship quickly grew into something more. Collin has been Savannah’s biggest cheerleader from the very beginning, supporting her from the sidelines throughout her time on the ETSU Dance Team. From campus walks and late-night study sessions to game days and road trips, we've grown up together—building a love rooted in friendship, loyalty, and laughter. With ETSU remained the heart of our journey, a place that brough us together and shaped the love we now share. Now, with college memories behind us and a future full of promise ahead, we're so excited to say “I do” and celebrate this next chapter with the people who mean the most.

The Proposal

If you know Savannah, you know one thing for sure—she is nearly impossible to surprise. But Collin was up for the challenge. When Savannah started planning their annual photo session, Collin knew this was the perfect moment. He had been quietly holding onto the ring since May (for nearly five months!) without breathing a word—not to Savannah, not even his own family spilled a word to Savannah. In July, while visiting Florida for Savannah's birthday he asked both of Savannah’s parents for their blessing. If you know her dad, Brian, you know just how impressive that is—he’s not exactly known for keeping secrets! But somehow, both parents pulled it off flawlessly. Two weeks before the big day, Collin let their closest friends in on the plan—including Ty, who Savannah is still a little mad at for keeping such a huge secret from her. Everyone was in on it. Collin and his mom, Marsha, even messaged their photographer, Hannah, behind Savannah’s back to coordinate every detail. Savannah, completely unaware, thought it was just another sweet photo shoot. The proposal took place at the Bristol boat dock, a scenic spot surrounded by mountains and water—two things the couple loves most. Even when a videographer showed up saying he was “building his portfolio,” Savannah didn’t think twice. As they posed for photos, Hannah asked Savannah to turn around and play with her hair. Still clueless, Savannah followed the prompt… and when she turned back around, Collin was down on one knee. She was genuinely, completely surprised. And just when Savannah thought the moment couldn’t get any sweeter, both sets of parents—and Remington, Savannah’s beloved family dog—popped out of the bushes! Her family had traveled up from Florida days before and had been expertly avoiding her. Savannah truly had no idea. It was a moment full of love, joy, and the best surprise of Savannah’s life—and one they’ll cherish forever.

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