This love story begins in the fall of 2021. Shannon and Brian had been talking for a week or so and had already planned their first date. It became clear early on that both of them were serious about dating, discussing topics like "is there such a thing as too many children", "what have you learned about love from those around you", and "how large is too large for a home gym". It was Tuesday, October 19th, and their first date was only two days away. Shannon planned to take down an event for her family's rental business at the Biltmore hotel that evening. Brian planned to play video games. Both of them were tremendously excited for their first date and couldn't wait to meet one another. As luck would have it, they would get their chance early. Shannon sprained her recently broken ankle and Brian saw an opportunity to spring into action. After barely any insisting, Shannon agreed that Brian could help take down the event and do the heavy lifting (his favorite). They met in an alley behind the Biltmore hotel, bagged up some table cloths, tossed them in a truck, and the rest is history. Before the month was over, they had their first date at a steakhouse, met family at Schnepf Farms, held a baby, and dressed up together for Halloween. Brian and Shannon look back on their beginnings with fondness and gratitude and cannot wait to spend the rest of their lives together as husband and wife.

Our lovely couple had been dating for less than a year, but it was clear to everyone they would get engaged. The only questions were when and how. Shannon loves the outdoors, and Brian loves to make her happy. Together they planned a vacation to Washington state for several days of hiking and sightseeing, ostensibly for Shannon's upcoming birthday. Little did she know, Brian had other plans. On their first full day in Olympic National Park, they parked near Lake Crescent and began their ascent of Mount Storm King. They spent their afternoon hiking through the old growth forest, admiring the views as they looped up and around the mountain. When they finally reached the peak, Shannon set up the camera while Brian sneakily palmed the ring box that he snuck into the bags Shannon had packed. After taking a few photos and with the camera still recording, Brian got down on one knee and popped the question. After a surprised and excited Yes! and as if on command, a pack of birds started circling them and even landed on Shannon's newly bedazzled hand. Brian would like to take the credit for flawless planning and execution. Shannon believes he got lucky. Either way, they both agree the proposal was perfect.