Pressley and Wade met on a Wednesday Karaoke Night at Tin Roof, Raleigh NC. Pressley saw Wade across the room and immediately knew she had to say hello. So she walked over, tapped on his shoulder, and said the infamous pick-up line: “I like your shirt.” Introductions were made and numbers exchanged, and they went on their first date 4 days later to one of their favorite pizza spots, DiFara Pizza in Cary, NC.

Wade began planning the proposal in January 2023. He wanted it to be an absolute surprise for Pressley, so he chose to use her 25th birthday as a cover for their engagement. He surprised Pressley on Valentine’s Day with a birthday trip to Blowing Rock, NC. Little did Pressley know, this birthday trip would turn into a surprise proposal! After crafting his game plan, he facetimed Pressley’s parents to ask for their blessing and received a resounding “Yes!”. Wade coordinated with both his and Pressley’s family to iron out the details, including the timeline of the day, a professional photographer, accommodations for the families, dinner reservations, and so much more. On Friday, March 24, Pressley and Wade arrived in Boone, NC, and the engagement weekend was finally here! They spent the day exploring restaurants, views, and breweries as Wade ensured the families who were already traveling to Blowing Rock were all ready for the following big day. Wade awoke early and made sure all plans were set in place. He took Pressley to a nice lunch at Peppers to be followed by a day of explorations the first being a visit at Wade’s favorite overlook at Stack Rock. Upon arriving, Wade sent a quick text to confirm everyone was in position. Pressley and Wade then began the quick ¼ mile walk to the overlook. Once safely seated, Wade grabbed Pressley’s hand and announced, “This view isn’t the only reason I brought you here today.” At that moment Pressley thought she knew what he meant, but also thought he could be joking. He stood Pressley up, got down on one knee, stated sweet vows, and asked her to marry him! Wade had to ask Pressley twice as she was so shocked, but she said “Yes!” (Of course!). After putting the ring on Pressley’s hand and a sweet hug and kiss, the photographer, Bethany Barton, jumped from behind the rock and took their first photos as an engaged couple. After a few minutes, Bethany said her goodbyes and left thh couple to have their moment. On the walk back to the parking lot, Wade whispered to Pressley “There’s one more surprise”, and upon walking across the corner of trees, both families were waiting with signs, hugs, and tears. Pressley began to ugly cry (see the gallery) and the couple was embraced by their loved ones. After a few more pictures with Bethany, the families spent the afternoon together and ended the special day with dinner at the Dan’l Boone Inn. The following morning, Pressley awoke as 25 and a fiance to her soulmate! The families celebrated her 25th birthday with a Sunday brunch and birthday sweets (and more happy tears from Pressley), before everyone made their treks back home. The happy newly engaged couple spent the drive back to Raleigh, NC, discussing all their wedding ideas and their plans for the next year. They ended the special weekend and birthday with pizza and more desserts just like their first date.