Today marks my one year anniversary since getting engaged in Taylors Falls, Minnesota! If you've never been to Taylors Falls, put it on your Minnesota bucket list right now. It's absolutely gorgeous! I can't believe how fast time has flown by. I'm 38 days away from my wedding...and there's still plenty left to do. But, I'm surprised at how far I've actually come. So, here's just a quick recap of how it all went down that day;

I got engaged this weekend to my best friend while we were hiking at Taylors Falls Interstate State Park.

Sunday was the perfect day for a hike in the woods. The weather was great and the scenery was breath taking. I had not even a hint or a clue that Dave would be asking me to marry him that day.

We met his mom, Anne, out at her cabin and followed her out to the trails. I had never been to Taylors Falls before so I was already looking forward to going.

Ashli Gerdes
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Ashli Gerdes
I was dressed for a hike if you know what I mean. I spent almost zero effort getting ready that morning because I didn’t know what was in store for me. We spent about two hours walking through the trails admiring the red, orange and gold leaves while Japanese Beatles flew around us.

Before we left, it was Dave’s idea to pose for a picture with me on a rock with the beautiful fall back drop behind us. This was definitely out of character for him because usually I’m the one begging him to take a selfie with me. He hates taking photos–but I didn’t argue!

His mom took the “picture” which turned out to be a video of the entire engagement. He pulled the ring out of his pocket, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I was way too excited to wait for him to open the ring’s case. I immediately said yes and went to hug him. He kindly reminded me that the proposal wasn’t over yet, and to be careful not to accidentally push him off of the 40-foot cliff.

I asked him to put the ring on me like they do in movies. I’m kind of a dork that way. It’s the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen and I’m beyond blessed to spend the rest of my life with my best friend. :)

Needless to say I had a great weekend. Oh, and he got the ring at my favorite jewelry store! Thanks to the amazing people at Wedding Day Diamonds for helping him find the perfect ring!"

 

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