schRideOfALifetime

OUR DREAM DAY
From Afar, With Love
Should you be unable to join us in person but still wish to share in our joy, we’ve created two heartfelt ways to contribute to this new chapter of our lives

If you feel called to bless us from afar, we welcome your generosity in whatever way feels most meaningful to you. You may choose to give toward our Honeymoon Fund, helping us create unforgettable memories as we begin our life together, or our Dream Home Fund, supporting us as we build a space rooted in love and belonging.
For those who prefer a more personal gift, contributions can also be sent directly via Zelle or Venmo.
No matter the distance, your thoughtfulness is felt and we are deeply grateful.
In Kind Giving
Our Engagement Story
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December 23rd 2024
The day began the way many of their favorite ones do—working out side by side, grounded in the rhythm of shared routines. Taylor thought they were heading to Kansas City to celebrate her birthday. Ben had told her to dress up for a fancy night out and mentioned they'd be staying at a hotel, but beyond that, he kept the details intentionally vague. They arrived at a stunning hotel, dropped off their bags, and decided to explore the city a bit before dinner and a show. As they headed downstairs, they stopped in the hotel lobby, drawn in by a grand Christmas tree sparkling with holiday magic. It felt like the perfect place to snap a few photos. Near the tree stood a man surrounded by camera gear—Xavier. Taylor turned to Ben and asked, “Should we ask him to take our picture?” Ben casually said yes, playing along, knowing full well what was about to unfold. Taylor nervously tapped Xavier on the shoulder, not wanting to interrupt his conversation, and asked if he wouldn’t mind taking a photo of them. Xavier kindly agreed and snapped a few on their camera. Then came the “unexpected” offer. Xavier introduced himself as a photographer building his portfolio. He mentioned he had just finished a wedding shoot and still had time left with a vintage car he’d rented. He offered to take a few more photos of them, and Taylor’s face lit up. She immediately said yes. Ben, staying in character, acted a bit hesitant—playing the role of the cautious partner to perfection. (Spoiler: the entire thing was his idea.) From there, Taylor leaned all the way in, transforming into full model mode and living out her America’s Next Top Couple fantasy. Xavier suggested they continue the shoot at a nearby train station. Ben jokingly reminded her they had dinner reservations, but Taylor was already halfway to the car. They climbed in—her with total excitement, him with quiet nerves—and headed to the next location. The train station was pure magic. Decked out in holiday décor, it looked like something out of a movie. Children looked on as the “photoshoot” continued, with Xavier capturing every laugh, glance, and pose. Finally, they circled back to a massive Christmas tree inside the station—and that’s when it happened. Surrounded by twinkling lights and the sparkle of holiday joy, Ben got down on one knee and asked Taylor to marry him. She said yes, stunned and overjoyed—completely unaware that every detail, every “coincidence,” and every surprise had been carefully orchestrated just for her. They spent their first Christmas engaged, surrounded by both of their families in an Elvis-themed Airbnb—complete with an indoor pool and the kind of joy that stays with you forever. To their friends and family: thank you for helping create the most unforgettable day of their lives (so far). And to Ben—the thoughtful mastermind behind it all—and Taylor’s mom, the secret co-conspirator who helped bring the magic to life—thank you for giving Taylor her very own Hallmark Christmas movie.