Amanda and David started dating while David was stationed in Kentucky with the Army. Living miles apart—Amanda in Raleigh and David on base—they didn’t let the distance or the challenges of a deployment, college stress, and time zones keep them apart. These two were destined to make it.
After earning her first degree, Amanda decided to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse, enrolling in UNCC’s BSN program. This allowed her and David to build a life together. Meanwhile, David transitioned from his military service into a healthcare career, becoming an EMT and quickly working toward becoming a paramedic.
Both of them enrolled in rigorous 18-month programs that tested their commitment and endurance, with countless late nights studying, clinicals, and exams. But their hard work paid off in a big way—two graduations, just one day apart! Both of their families couldn’t have been prouder to celebrate these incredible milestones.
Having patiently waited for both of them to finish school, David knew he didn’t want to wait a moment longer to propose. He also knew Amanda was beyond excited to say “yes” when the time finally came. Determined to make the moment unforgettable, David enlisted the help of his sister, Katie, to craft the perfect plan.
Despite Amanda nearly spoiling the surprise, David carefully orchestrated everything so that the proposal would take place on graduation day—a momentous occasion when Amanda’s parents, sister, brother-in-law, and aunts would all be in town from different parts of the country. With David’s mom, dad, sister, and brother-in-law also in on the plan, both families hid within view of the proposal site, carefully positioned so Amanda wouldn’t see them.
To set the stage, Katie arranged a celebratory “graduation” lunch at her favorite Italian restaurant, giving David the perfect excuse to lead Amanda through Freedom Park under the guise that the restaurant was just on the other side. Little did Amanda know, David had already scoped out the perfect spot by the lake—one framed by a stunning floral ground arch.
As they strolled through the park, Amanda began to catch on to the ruse. As David dropped to one knee and asked Amanda to spend forever with him, cheers erupted from their hidden families in the distance and the photographer appeared from a perfect hiding spot.
The joyous occasion concluded with a mini engagement photo session and a beautiful group picture of their soon-to-be blended family—marking the start of their next exciting chapter together.
submitted by: Katie Greder, Carolina Brida Guide | photography: Him and Her Photography | venue: Freedom Park, Charlotte, NC | planning: Charlotte Bride Guide | florist: Radiant Bliss Designs | couple: Amanda Burns & David Greder
