The Proposal

Our Proposal Story

On January 2, 2022, Matt took Rebekah to Panera for breakfast. Initially, he had planned to take her to The Mill, where they had their first date, but it was closed due to it being a holiday weekend. After finishing breakfast, they drove to The Gathering Community Church for a celebration service observing the church’s ninth birthday. Matt had tremendous difficulty remaining focused throughout the sermon, contemplating what was to come next.

. . .

Once church let out, Matt and Rebekah headed to Jersey Mike’s to grab some delicious sub sandwiches to then take on a picnic to Mineral Springs Park in Fuquay-Varina. Matt and Rebekah enjoyed some lighthearted dialogue while on the picnic, all while Matt felt the pressure mounting for the big moment. During the lunch, he continually attempted to redirect her line of sight in hopes she would avoid seeing the hidden photographer, Andrew.

. . .

Matt went back to the car and fetched a picnic basket containing freshly-baked cannolis from the local Wal-Mart (and, secretly, also the engagement ring). Once finished with the lunch and dessert, they packed up and began walking back to Matt’s car (or so she thought) amidst the light rain. Conveniently, they approached a beautiful gazebo on the way back across the park. Once they were about to pass a park bench, Matt exclaimed “Hey babe, I have something for you.” He set down the basket on the bench and drew forth the ring box.

. . .

“Oh my goodness” thought Rebekah, “is this REALLY about to happen!?” Matt opened the box to reveal a Ring Pop to Rebekah’s dismay. “You probably don’t want to eat that,” he exclaimed. He rushed back to the basket to procure the actual ring box! Once they were in place under the gazebo, he explained how they were both ready to move from the phase of dating to the chapter of engagement. With wobbly legs and a shaky voice, he got on one knee and mustered the courage to say “Rebekah Clayton, will you marry me?” Looking down at the gorgeous ring, she exclaimed “YES!” before leaping into Matt’s arms for a warm embrace.