This love story starts at the Cushman School where the bride and groom are both alumni, but never met, as they were a few years apart. They officially became acquainted on their friend Patrick’s boat many years ago. They crossed paths over the years, but never really spoke until a summer birthday party fated them to be in the pool, bonding over their mutual love of science fiction. Another year went by before the stars aligned at the Whalen’s wedding, when Dustin asked Shelby to borrow her golf cart to go change his shoes, and Shelby said she would drive. That golf cart ride was the beginning of their relationship, as they were never apart from that day forward.

After two years of dating, Dustin knew it was time to propose to the love of his life. He found the perfect ring, decided on the perfect place and set his plans in motion for the annual Goldberg trip to Acadia National Park. Shortly after they arrived, Dustin and Shelby’s mom set forth the perfect plan, to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain (the highest point on the US east coast) with some of the best sunsets around, under the farce of taking family photos. On that special day, the family was running late and the road to the mountain top was going to close any minute. The long and winding roads combined with the ticking clock was building suspense, and they were the last car admitted onto the road for the night. This was a sign to Dustin, that fate was working in their favor. As they ascended the mountain, Shelby noticed something off with Dustin, he was not his normal self and she wondered why he was being such a nervous nelly. When they finally reached the top of Cadillac Mountain the setting sun illuminated the sky in oranges and reds creating the perfect ambiance for the proposal. When they reached a clearing in the trees, Shelby’s mom told the couple to take a test photo to check the lighting, they posed for a picture and Dustin grabbed Shelby’s hand and said “Wait”. Shelby immediately realized something big was happening, but her charm bracelet had gotten stuck to Dustin’s knit sweater creating a moment of pause. Trying hard not to ruin the moment, Shelby yanked her bracelet free and Dustin finally knelt down on one knee, professed his love and asked her to marry him. Of course, Shelby said “YES!” and her family and a mountain top of spectators cheered in excitement as the young couple kissed in the evening light. We are so excited to celebrate this next chapter of life with you! See you in Miami!

Please check back soon for updated engagement photos!