Tyler and Dakota are engaged and we’re so excited for these two! I recently got to hang out with them for the first time at Umstead State Park for their fall engagement portraits! I was a little nervous and intimidated when Dakota walked up holding her pups leash! But he ended up being a very sweet and well trained boy! We spent some time adventuring through the park together just before sunset.

Tell us about your proposal!

Tyler planned a special trip to Charleston, South Carolina, for New Year’s eve, where we explored the city’s stunning architecture and soaked in the festive atmosphere. One evening, we attended a Christmas lights festival, surrounded by the magic of twinkling lights, joyful music, and holiday cheer.

As we were taking in the sights, a young couple approached us, asking if we could take their picture. We struck up a conversation and learned that they had just gotten married and welcomed their first child. The woman began sharing how important love and partnership are in a marriage. In that moment, Tyler turned to me and said, “Well, this seems like the perfect time to ask a question.”

Before I knew it, Tyler was down on one knee, asking me to marry him. I was so taken aback by how perfectly everything aligned that I couldn’t help but ask if Tyler and the woman knew each other—everything felt so serendipitous! After a few moments of disbelief, I finally snapped out of it and, of course, said yes!

We spent the rest of the night celebrating in downtown Charleston with drinks, fireworks, and the joy of our new chapter together.