Noah’s reflections:

For a few months I knew I wanted to ask Tia to be my Five-ever. So I asked John (one half of the most encouraging couple) and Brock to help with ring shopping. After finding the right one I discovered it was sold, however this bad news turned out to be a huge blessing as the perfect ring was then revealed – in fact it was better in literally every way. Ring - tick. 

Next was time to talk to Tia’s Dad (so scary!). I took Chris to the place where I took Tia on our first date (yes, a bit sentimental) and mustered up the courage to ask him if I could take his eldest daughter in marriage. After a few questions, luckily he said yes so we spent the rest of the night having a fantastic time getting to know each other better. I am excited for the future being able to call Chris a friend and a Dad as well. Father permission – tick.

The day of the proposal had some obstacles including terrible winds and rain plus an issue with clothing but to me the day was perfect because Tia said yes! The proposal turned out heaps better than I was expecting mainly due to amazing service of the lovely girls at Gracie Lane (who are also great friends) who organised our picnic set up including changing location due to the weather. Without their incredible help and flexibility the day would not have been a success as they not only made the location look perfect but allowed me to relax and focus on not stuffing up my lines! Setting – tick. 

So I managed to convince Tia to get out of the car with me in the cold sprinkle and wind and go for a walk along the beach. And as we walked I looked for the picnic location (not very subtly). As soon as I saw it, I knew this was my moment so I knelt down and asked Tia to marry me. Did I say already that she said Yes?! Fiancé -tick. 

At last we could sit down and enjoy the picnic, spending time sharing and laughing about all the secrets I had kept and all the suspicions that Tia had about the day. It was a magical evening.

I can’t wait to begin the next season of life with my amazing fiancé. Stay tuned for Part 2 - The Wedding!

Tia’s reflections:

The proposal was better than what I ever could have dreamed! Noah did an incredible job of organising everything, including hiring Gracie Lane, while keeping it all a secret. Although I had some suspicions on the day (biggest of all being Noah politely telling me to change out of the outfit I had chosen to wear because it was not up to standard), I was thoroughly impressed with the amount of time and effort he put into the evening.

We are now planning our wedding and it is a season of life I was always so excited for as a little girl. Although it can be sometimes overwhelming and a little stressful, there is no one else I would rather do it beside, and it is so fun planning our big day for all of our favourite people to be a part of. I am so excited and honoured to walk with Noah in life through all of its highs and lows.