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Photography by Erin Trimble Photography
The last five days have been such a whirlwind! First off, J and I are so grateful for your love and support during this very special time. I can’t believe today is the day that we share our engagement story with y’all! We’ve never been so nervous, excited, and thrilled all at the same time. It was truly one of the best days of our lives, but we know that the best is yet to come.
Now, without further ado…it begins…
About five weeks ago, J told me to get dressed up because we were going to dinner.
What’s the catch, right? Why five weeks ago?
Well, instead of taking me directly to dinner, to my surprise, we made a pit stop…at a jeweler. Jordan had a setting picked out and several center stone diamonds overnighted for us to look at. I was too stunned to even do anything — it was quite possibly the most romantic gesture ever. I looked at a few different rings {bawling my eyes out when I tried on the first one}, but none of them compared to the one he had already picked out.
This may be taboo for some people. I understand that not *everyone* wants to know an engagement is coming, but I appreciate him taking my ring preference into consideration when needless to say, he didn’t even need it. Plus, the excitement was totally worth it.
Fast forward five weeks.
Past our amazing October. Past the fall itinerary. Past him asking my parents {and my brother & sister} for their blessing. Past him choosing a diamond. Past him concocting a plan with Erin throughout the five weeks.
aaaaand BAM. Here we are. I was aware that it was coming, but I honestly had no clue when. Would it be around Thanksgiving? Christmas? The New Year? January?
We’ve had a few photoshoots scheduled with Erin Trimble, but they were all getting rained out due to the funky weather. She wanted to get a holiday photoshoot on the calendar, since she books up pretty quickly. Weeks in advance, we decided on a Saturday evening photoshoot at Black Acre {my favorite place to photograph}.
As time started to creep up, we realized it was the one year anniversary of when we met {an extremely special day for the both of us}. He planned morning massages for us and dinner reservations post-shoot. I offered to cancel the photoshoot, but he insisted that it only takes us a hot second to get a few outfits done and to not worry about it. He’s always such a good sport.
So, above, are the photos of us doing our thaaang. Casually in a huge field in this aggressive {yet beautiful} sequin dress and these rockstud pumps. I didn’t want to ruin my heels, so I made J pick me up and carry me across this field. Trust me, he works out. He squats quadruple my weight. He typically lifts me as though I’m light as a feather. 30 yards in, he’s profusely sweating and practically drops me. I was slightly confused {and offended}, but brushed it off. My booty must have been weighing him down.
I *clearly* have no idea of what’s to come. I didn’t even realize that this photoshoot and date were actually planned by him and Erin to begin with. I was unaware that he was so nervous, especially with the ring in his pocket, that the last thing he wanted to do was carry me across a field.
When we finished with everything, Jordan turns to me. He gets really serious and tells me he loves me. His voice cracked and he seemed uncharacteristically nervous. {He denies this, of course.}
I nonchalantly reply “psh, I love you too!”
And then he repeats himself, “Grace, I love you. And I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”
I look at Erin and literally say “What’s happening?”
J gives me the sweetest spiel {which is a little too intimate for me to share}, and then ends it with a request — will I be Mrs. Grace Noel White?
I honestly kind of blacked out for a little bit. I was shaking — I couldn’t believe that the day I had been dreaming about since I was a little girl was here. I had prayed to God for a selfless, compassionate, and caring man that I could spend the rest of my life with and create a family with. The day I met Jordan, I knew he was the one I had been praying for.
He got down on one knee — a moment I will never forget — and asked to spend forever with me. For me to be his partner in crime, to be the mother of his future children, to be his lobster. He made me promises that shook me to my core. I had never felt so loved and cared for.
So, OBVIOUSLY, I said hell yes. Well, to be honest, I kissed him and then told him “I’d be honored”. {‘Honored’, Grace? Really? You couldn’t just say ‘yes’?}
Gosh, didn’t he do well!? The ring is absolutely stunning and more importantly, I love having a reminder on my hand of our devotion to each other.
After it finally sunk in…we both got giddy.
*shook*
*always making me laugh, even during the most important of moments*
*another wave of tears came for me*
*cue Kim Kardashian ugly cry*
I will never forget this moment. After it all, we held each other in an extremely long embrace — it felt as though the world had stopped.
In J’s own words, “when you have the best, you lock it down.” {He’s so sweet.}
Photography by Erin Trimble Photography
Afterwards, J had planned quite the night for us. We got into the car and FaceTimed our family and friends. Marilyn, Alex, and Autumn were already planning my bachelorette trip during the calls haha.
We drove to our first pitstop — but before walking in, he handed me a letter to read. A letter that I will cherish forever…and a letter that brought way too many tears to both of our eyes than we’d like to admit. We arrived at Side Bar to grab a drink, sitting at the same table {and ordering the same cocktails} as we did on our first date. The manager congratulated us as it was clear that J and I were on cloud nine.
Following our drink, we went to Seviche, my fave restaurant in Louisville, to celebrate our engagement at a personal candlelit dinner. {J’s dinner plans weren’t so bad after all…}
Right when I thought the night was over, he drove me to one last surprise. He walked me into Saints, the bar where we first met. He guided me to the spot where we shook hands and introduced ourselves, and in that spot, was my family and our close friends, all there to congratulate us and celebrate. It was such a meaningful evening, and we of course, took a tequila shot as our night cap {we took a tequila shot the first night we met}.
It’s crazy what can happen in a year. I met the love of my life and the rest is history.
I was having a hard time ending this post, because frankly, I think I could talk about that evening forever. Then I realized that this post doesn’t have an ending, but instead, a beginning. Thank you so much for all of the love, excitement, and gratitude.We look forward to sharing our journey with y’all!
…Now, let’s plan a wedding!
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There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t feel so blessed to be Jordan’s wife. He is my everything. These photos and video are the sweetest reminder of our love for one another. So, grab a cup of coffee, pull up a seat, and try not to bawl your eyes out (because I know we did). Every time we look through our photos and watch our video, we cry the happiest tears.
It’s crazy what can happen in a year. I met the love of my life and the rest is history. I was having a hard time ending this post, because frankly, I think I could talk about that evening forever. Then I realized that this post doesn’t have an ending, but instead, a beginning. Thank you so much for all of the love, excitement, and gratitude.
One of my favorite things to do in the fall is bake my dark chocolate chip pumpkin bread! I’ve made it *so* many times for me, J, and friends & family. It’s moist, decadent, and super easy to make! It also makes for a great DIY housewarming gift.
This is such a beautiful story! Congrats!
Thank you so much! Xx
Reading this gave me chills and I started to tear up!!
Thrilled for you two and the love that you have (that will continue to grow)!
Here’s to a great season in your lives!!
Thank you, Angela! We’re so excited for this amazing time in our lives! Xx
Now, I’m Kim Kardashian ugly crying.. Oh my goodness, magically beautiful! Wishing you both a lifetime of love, embarking God’s blessings together. <3
Thanks for the warm wishes, Kayla! We’re thrilled! Xx
I’m emotional and I don’t have a personal relationship with either of you. What an incredible surprise! I’m so glad you have these memories to cherish and the day unraveled perfectly. I think Jordan including you in making sure the ring would be perfect is an amazing gesture. It’s on your hand for the rest of your life! My favorite picture is your look of shock. It definitely reads “what is going on here!?” Cheers to celebrations and wedding plans. I can’t wait to follow your journey!
Thanks, Shannon! and thanks so much for reading this post. I love that photo of shock! It’s my fave ha! It was such a beautiful evening and we can’t wait to share the rest of this journey with y’all! Xx
What a beautiful proposal – so incredibly sweet and thoughtful. I am so happy for you two. I wish you nothing but the best in your marriage. Cheers to endless years of happiness!
Thanks so much, Lauren! It was such an amazing evening and we’re still on cloud nine! Xx
Such a beautiful couple! Brought tears to my eyes remembering my own engagement. Congrats to you and have fun on your wedding planning adventure!
Thanks so much for reading! We’re thrilled to plan a wedding! Xx
Congratulations Grace! Your ring and the story is amazing! I recently got engaged myself in September, and I too helped with the ring as my parents gave him the sapphire that was once my grandmothers engagement stone. I just didn’t know when he was. I was constantly thinking any little moment might be it! Congrats again and from one bride to another, good luck on all your planning and just remember to breathe and enjoy this whirlwind of a new adventure together! Xoxo
Thanks, Ashley! ME TOO! We would be going to get coffee or something and I’m like *oh is it going to happen* lol! Thanks for reading and we’re excited to share this journey with you! Xx
I have loved watching you find love with Jordan. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story with us! Wishing you two all the best!
Thanks, Kelsey! We really appreciate it! Xx
I don’t know you,but stumbled across your insta & started following your blog…love your style & workout info! I recently got engaged in October & we are planning an April wedding {fast, but when ya know…ya know} anyway just wanted to say congrats and I’m excited for all your wedding posts! Also we are going to be at the Derby after the wedding, so I’d love tips of fun things to do in Louisville during that time! Thanks and congrats again!
Hi Autumn! Thanks so much for reading this post and I’m so glad you’ve been following along. We’re both so excited for this fun time! P.S. Congrats to you! Derby is a blast here, I would definitely check out Lola/butchertown grocery, feast bbq, and proof! Xx
CONGRATULATIONS! This story is precious and the pictures are so amazing.
KIM
http://TRENDKEEPER.ME .. Beauty Gift Guide & Black Friday Giveaway!
Thanks so much, Kim! Xx
Congrats!!! Beautiful story! Literally brought tears to my eyes reading it, because I am still currently on my journey to finding the man God has for me. I know your wedding will be amazing!! Can’t wait to see what it looks like!!
Thanks so much for reading! It takes faith and patience, but God places people in your life at *just* the right time. Sending good vibes your way! Xx
Congratulations! Such a sweet story! Have fun with all of the wedding plans!!
Thanks, Pam! We can’t wait to plan a wedding! Xx
CONGRATULATIONS! Couldn’t be happier for you both! Yayyyyy!
Thanks, Jenn! You’re always so supportive and kind! Xx
Grace! Congrats! Brought tears to my eyes! So happy for you both! Love this photo shoot!! Stunning!
Thanks so much, Alaina! It was such a wonderful evening full of love! Xx
There’s not enough words – this is just so beautiful. Congratulations to you both!
Thanks you, Roshni! We’re really excited!! Xx
Congratulations!! I love all the photos! They truly capture the love y’all have for each other! Many blessings to both of you as you embark on this journey together. ❤️
Thanks so much! We’re excited for what’s to come! Xx
Absolutely beautiful story! Your engagement story brought me to tears and made me hopeful. I love that you shared this with all of us.
Congratulations! My husband and I️ picked out my ring together as well. And I️ truly think It was just as special as him proposing ❤️
I agree! It was just as special. Thanks for taking the time to read this post! Have a great weekend! Xx
Gosh, this literally made me cry!! Beautiful. So excited for you! The best is truly yet to come. Congratulations you two!
I cried while writing it haha! Thanks so much, Nicholle! Xx
I do not know you personally; only from your blog and insta. Congratulations to you and J! Your post had me in tears- so happy that you have found your lifetime partner in crime and love!
Thanks, Katie! It was such an amazing night — we keep re-living it! Thanks for following along! Xx
So happy for you! Such a sweet story!
Thanks, April! We’re thrilled!! Xx
Love love love this sweet beginning!! So many congratulations to both of you!!
xox
Ashley
Thanks so much, Ashley! Xx
Congratulations! I love the line “it’s crazy what can happen in a year,” because I always think about that. As much as I try not to look back at a traumatic break up and being completely blind sighted of over a year ago, it haunts me sometimes. I love reading about other women’s experiences of surviving it and finally finding the person who was truly meant to be in your path. It’s difficult to find gems in this dating world with an old soul in my 20s, but it gives me hope! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Patricia! Things happen quickly — and everything happens for a reason. Sending good vibes your way! Xx
This is so sweet, I teared up reading it! Congratulations to both of y’all! Can’t wait to follow along on this journey with you guys!
Thank you, Kelsey! We’re still on cloud nine! Xx
Congratulations!!! 🙂
Greetings from Peru
Claudia
Thanks, Claudia!
I’m such a huge fan of you and your blog and have been following you right around you posted that horrific time in your life about your ex 🙁 I’m so happy to know god had a way better plan in mind for you! Enjoy every moment of this beautiful fairytale, you deserve it !!!
Thanks for following along, Dee! Then, you most definitely know that this is quite the fairytale for us. Thanks for all your sweet words! Xx
I literally got emotional reading your story! I’m so happy for the two of you! Congratulations and all the best! : )
Thank you so much, Adina! We feel so blessed! Xx
Congratulations to both of you !!! Thanks for sharing tihis story 🙂
Thanks, Sarah!!
I am just so happy for you. I have followed your blog for a long time and all of this is so well deserved. I am just thrilled for you and can’t wait to hear about the wedding!
Thanks, Paula! I’m glad you’ve been along for the journey and I can’t wait to share wedding details with y’all! Xx
I’M NOT CRYING, YOU ARE… What a freaking lovely story! Ya both did good, and I can’t wait for the wedding posts!!
Thanks friend! It was such a magical evening! Xx
Omg!! I LOVE everything about this post and I am so happy for you two! I feel like I know you guys but seriously, I started following you right before Jordan came into the picture so I feel like I have been invested in your relationship, ha and I am so glad you found your one! Enjoy this time together, it all goes so fast!
Heather
Hi Heather! You started following along at the right time then haha! He really has changed my life for the better. Super excited for what’s in store for us! Xx
“What’s happening”
This story was so sweet and you two are so great together. I remember reading and commenting on your first post about Jordan- you two are clearly just meant to be. God obviously had a plan!! Wishing you all His blessings during this amazing journey.
So sweet! ♥️ Would love to read this first post…is it still somewhere that we can catch up on this love story? (I’m new here)
God definitely had a plan! Thanks for taking the time to read this! I love the photo capturing my confusion — too funny! Xx
Definitely tearing up over here at my desk…haha. I’m so happy for you, Grace!! Marriage is awesome, by the way. You’re right to be giddy! 🙂
Chelsey
http://www.chelseynelson.com
Thanks, Chelsey! I have a feeling I’m going to LOVE it! Thanks for reading! Xx
Congratulations!! This was such a sweet story and these photos are beautiful. I definitely teared up while reading this too. 🙂 Enjoy this special time together and every moment of the planning!!
Thanks so much, Caroline! We’re thrilled for this journey! Xx
I’M SO FREAKING HAPPY FOR YOU!!! I love your instagram and story and can’t wait for you!!! ENJOY THIS TIME!!! It flies by!
Ahh thank you!! We’re so excited!! Xx
I am so happy for you two. Best wishes for all the love and happiness in the world. Be giddy all you want!!! Celebrate every day together. If you think you’re happy now — wait until you’ve been married a while. It will be a 1000x better.
Thank you so much, Heather! We’re so excited! I can’t wait for married life — I’m sure it will be 1000x better even though I can’t seem to fathom that right now ha! Life is good 🙂 Xx
This was such a beautiful story! You can tell he put so much thought into every part of it. Congratulations to y’all
Thanks so much, Brooklyn! Appreciate it! Xx
OMG I DIE BEST POST EVER!!!! Where can I get a J
Thanks, gf! When J’s brother gets old enough, I’ll send him your way haha! Xx
So so so happy for you guys! It’s such an amazing feeling to know you have found your forever! You guys look so incredibly happy and it warms my heart! Enjoy this whirlwind of wedding planning because it will go by so quickly. Cheers to a blessed and happy life together!!
Thanks Whitney! We’re thrilled to start this journey together. I’m so dang excited to have a life with that stud. Thanks for reading this post! Xx
Very, very sweet story! You two are adorable! I just started following you this morning!…..What a great time to start! I look forward to riding along for your beautiful journey! CONGRATS!! ♥️
Thanks for reading and for following along, Marci! The first post is actually linked up there for you (you can find it here too)! Xx
You’ve got a stranger in WI tearing up over this story. Congratulations! May God bless you both and the life you will create together. Oh, and way to go J. Very awesome planning.
Ahhhh! So many congratulations to you two-I’m so excited for you, Grace!
xoxo, SS
Southern and Style
I know that y’all are married now, but I am just now reading this. Talk about ROMANTIC and extremely thoughtful!!! I love this so much. ❤️ You guys are seriously the cutest. Congratulations and cheers to the New Year!