Where did you meet?
Kevin and I went to the same high school, and though we were several years apart, we were friends with each other’s siblings. Throughout the years we saw each other at various parties and events. It was 17 years after we first met that we connected at Kevin’s brother’s priestly ordination and went on our first date the very next day. We have been long distance our entire relationship – with Kevin in Connecticut and I in Virginia – but we have managed to see each other on average two days a week the entire time.
Please describe the proposal.
The conditions could not have been more perfect, though it didn’t seem that way at first. We had planned a trip to see some friends in Sweden for the New Year. I had planned a stay at the Ice Hotel with a northern lights photography tour to capture the moment. Three hours before it was to start, the tour was canceled, and I thought my plan was ruined.
That night, instead, we went to dinner and walked out into the forest until it was completely dark. We laid alone in a clearing to look at the perfect starry dome above us. After about an hour, the Aurora Borealis showed on the horizon in brilliant color. As a shooting star streaked across the sky, I asked Eileen what she wished for. She said, “To spend the rest of my life with you.” I knew it was the right moment. I got on my knees, gently lifted her to her feet and made her wish come true.
What was the first thing you did after you got engaged?
We stayed out under the lights for a while longer then retired to the Ice Bar, where we toasted our future together and called her family back in Virginia to share the news.
Have you picked a date? Venue? Theme?
We will be wed on the 5th of September 2020 in Leesburg, Virginia, with our reception at Koehr Manor in Warrenton, Virginia.
What is something you and your fiancé like to do together?
We enjoy adventuring outdoors and traveling to new places. We like the mountains and going hiking, as well as riding motorcycles and educating each other on favorite movies.
Will you be taking a honeymoon? If so, where and why did you pick that destination?
Yes, we will be taking a honeymoon. We are still undecided as to where, but we are looking at Morocco because it is on my bucket list, neither he nor I have been there and it has so many rich options to offer. It has culture, food, beaches to relax on and mountains for hiking.
What is a fun fact about you as a couple?
From the day after our first date, Kevin has texted me, “Good Morning Beautiful,” every morning without fail.
