How did you two meet?
We met at James River High School in 2016! We were in the same friend group and became good friends when we had assigned seats in 10th grade Algebra. While we never dated in high school, we rekindled while I was in college at VCU and he attended Virginia Tech. He needed a date to a Tech fraternity formal in Myrtle Beach, and his best friend was taking my friend and recommended Ryan ask me to be his date. It was such a fun weekend, and we’ve been inseparable ever since!


Share your proposal! Who was involved? How/where/when did it happen?
We planned a trip to go see Riley Green in concert in Wilmington, NC. First he asked my grandfather’s blessing, then put down a deposit on a custom ring. 3 months later we drove to Wilmington and spent the day at the beach. That evening we had dinner downtown and had the most delicious oysters and shrimp and grits, then went to Fort Fisher “because he heard they had beautiful sunsets.” We were walking on the beach when he shared the most heartfelt words then popped the question!
The moment was so beautiful. I was completely shocked! A photographer was there, hiding and captured the whole thing. I had always wanted to get engaged on a beach, and he put so much thought and effort ensuring the proposal was everything I had ever dreamed of. The rest of the weekend consisted of us singing along with Riley Green in the front row of the Live Oak Bank Pavilion, day trips to Wrightsville beach and espresso martini bars. We drove home on Father’s Day and celebrated our engagement with both of our families. It was truly so special!


Tell us about the ring — did you pick it out?
I told him the general concept of what I liked early in the relationship. He booked an appointment and hammered out all of the details; from emerald cut, hidden halo, gold setting, he picked out all of it and let Emily Warden Designs do the rest!
What are you looking forward to most about wedding planning?
I’m looking forward to getting creative and finding unique ways to personalize details and decor to highlight our special love. Whether that’s through table number displays, personalized cocktail napkins, or preserved flower petals from flowers he’s gotten me over the years, I’m so excited to start DIYing thoughtful pieces!


Have you booked any vendors yet? If so, which ones?
We’re still on the venue search! We haven’t booked any vendors yet!
Are you planning to set a wedding budget? If so, what is your approach?
$15-20k
What overall vibe do you want your wedding to give?
Classy, historic house / estate. Blue and white hydrangeas, white roses, and lots of baby’s breath.


How many guests are you planning to have?
Around 130
Any words of wisdom/planning advice you have for our other engaged followers?
Remind yourself to live in the moment during this special new chapter with your fiancé and not stress too much about working out all of the little details. Easier said than done!
Congratulations Karli & Ryan on your new adventure!
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