HOW WE MET

The Pelas! Brian knew Tim Pela, I knew Scott Pela. Their wives, Heather and Allison, conspired and set us up at Andy Snyder's going away party in 2005, just days before 4th of July. Who knew the match would be a PERFECT fit!


WHEN WE GOT ENGAGED

November 9, 2007

HOW IT HAPPENED

Brian was out of town in Vegas on business, but he promised to fly back to Phoenix early enough for a nice dinner. So, we got all dressed up and headed out to our favorite restaurant - Basis. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary as we try to get there about one a month or so.

Well, during the meal, Brian mentioned that he wanted to save room for dessert - our favorite dessert is the ancho chili brownie. Never one to say no to ice cream and chocolate, I happily obliged. I had a moment of worry though when our favorite waiter Pete came over and mentioned there had been some changes to the dessert menu. I was very worried my precious brownie was gone. Brian took the dessert menu, then handed to me. Upon first glance, the menu appeared the same as it always did - until I got to the brownie…it said... Engaging Ancho Chili Brownie Accompanied by an assortment of tantalizing diamonds within a scrumptious setting. A perfect complement to another magnificent meal with my true love. Finished by your hand in marriage? The price for this extra special "dessert" was listed as "Priceless" (just like Brian!). I then looked up, and Brian had pulled out the ring. I, of course, said yes and sat there stunned. The waiter, who was in on it for months, then brought over champagne and the chili brownie. For once, I really couldn't eat - a first when there is chocolate anywhere near my vicinity. But that was not the end of the surprise…

We walked out of the restaurant to find a red carpet and flashbulbs. Brian had hired a driver and a 1953 vintage Bentley - and he asked his parents to be our personal paparazzi! We got into the Bentley and it took us to Jilly's in Scottsdale - where we first met. When we got out, my family and his were there to toast us and to take more photos (Brian knew I would want as many pictures to scrapbook as humanly possible!!!). It was unbelievable!! At midnight, I assumed the night was over. However, the Bentley pulled back up and drove us in style to the Four Seasons Resort at Troon. Brian had arranged a fabulous bed and breakfast package for us - including rose petals in the shape of hearts on the bed and candles throughout the room. To say it was perfect was an understatement. We spent the rest of the weekend in engagement bliss!!