You could say they fell in love over breadsticks, but, really, who doesn’t? Actually, to be accurate, they met over breadsticks at Olive Garden, but she kept putting him off for a year–a year, folks–every time he asked her to hang out. She was always busy, she said, as an excuse. Finally, his persistence paid off and she agreed to go to a movie, ironically Date Night. Whether it was the great Steve Carell/Tina Fey combination or Drew’s whit and humor, Keri left the movie feeling like she had a great date, minus any interactions with the mob, and so much fun hanging out with Drew.

Drew still doesn’t consider that their first date though. Because, as much fun as it was, they didn’t hang out again until several months later. It was during Despicable Me that Keri really fell head over heels. It was during the early fall, during harvest, and they spend every day together after that movie date. She rode with him in the combine for hours and hours and they talked about everything imaginable, yes, even getting married.

Fast forward a few months: Keri had the worst 12-hour night shift imaginable. She was furious and frustrated when she got off and texted Drew asking him to not to go work until she was able to get home and vent. It was freezing cold outside, typical Iowa arctic, and when she got home, all the doors were locked. This was on top of the lack of sleep and awful work shift. Imagine how excited she was about that.

Then she saw it: a clue.

There in the frostbiting chill was a scavenger hunt that led her around the outside of the house with memories of dates and their lives together. The hunt led her into the house by their new mantel that was sparkling with candles and one final note. As she read the note, their song “Falling For You” started playing in the background and Drew snuck into the room behind her and got on his knee. She turned around and choked back a few tears as he proposed. Forget choking them back, it was all out tears now.

They called their families and friends and celebrated with true Emily-style goodness: food! They went out to eat for breakfast to a great little diner in Wellman, Iowa called DJs. (I’ve been there; it totally has my stamp of approval!) Amidst the bacon and pancakes, they were all smiles and laughter. They are getting married!!

According to Drew, it would’ve happened a year earlier if she hadn’t snubbed him for so long.

(To get a larger view of the gallery below, just click on a photo. Use the arrows on either side to scroll through the album.)

Keri + Drew, you are beautiful together. Thank you for allowing me to capture you both just as you are, so full of love, life, and laughter.