Local Love: Katie + Ryan

A few weeks later, Ryan invited me to Quincy for dinner and a sunset boat ride on the Mississippi. Growing up, I spent time with my family boating on the Missouri side of the Mississippi River and knew that it could be dangerous if you did not know the river. I had never been on the Quincy side of the river and was a little apprehensive. As the sun started to set, we headed out. I was beyond nervous and prayed that Ryan wasn’t a serial killer that would sink me in the river. It turned out to be the most romantic date – straight out of a storybook. We floated down the river, talking, listening to music, and watching the sun go down and the Quincy bridge light up.

He surprised me by wanting to go to Boodalu, we had not been there since one of our first dates. We were enjoying dessert when Ryan started to act weird. He was fidgeting and talking fast. I finally asked what is your deal? He claimed the wine was getting to him, and we could go walk down by the river.

I had no idea I was walking into my proposal. I even saw the photographer taking pictures of us and thought it was weird. I was speechless when he dropped to one knee and asked me to be his wife at sunset. The people around started clapping and cheering. If I could relive that moment over and over again, I would.

A celebration was planned afterward, where Ryan surprised me with my family. The happy tears started to flow when I saw them. We were married a year later at Lakeview Weddings in June. It was a beautiful hot June wedding full of bright florals and pinks. Our reception followed at the Quincy Country Club with dueling pianos to dance the night away. It was an absolute dream of a wedding day. We could not have asked for more love and laughter that day. Our story continues to be written, but our love story is one of our favorite chapters.