The Day Dean Proposed

The day Dean proposed is one I’ll never forget. We were driving together from Athens to Florence, and the whole way there something felt unusual. Dean—who usually drives at least the speed limit—was going unusually slow. I kept asking him why, and he just gave me these funny looks like I was the one acting strange.

When we finally arrived, Dean led me to his parents’ backyard. It’s a place full of his family’s memories, and the sentimental setting made the moment even more meaningful. That’s where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

The Ring That Holds History

What made the proposal even more special was my engagement ring. It’s nearly 100 years old and has been passed down through generations of women in my family—my great-grandmother, my grandmother, my mom, and now me. Slipping it on felt like stepping into a legacy of love and commitment, and I’m so honored to carry on that tradition.

The Sweet Surprise

After I said yes, Dean confessed the reason behind his slow driving—he had been stalling to give everyone enough time to hide at the house! Sure enough, when we walked inside, our friends and families were waiting to celebrate with us. It was the sweetest surprise and the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

What Our Friends Say About Us

Our friends always joke that we’re basically the male and female versions of each other—and honestly, it’s true. We’re both goofy, fun-loving, and always up for a laugh. People tell us all the time that we’re the perfect match… and we have to admit, they’re right.

Our Engagement Session at Centennial Park

After the proposal, we celebrated this season with our engagement session at Centennial Park in Nashville, Tennessee. From the iconic Parthenon to the quiet tree-lined paths, it was the perfect backdrop to capture our joy and laughter. Those photos feel like such a reflection of us—fun-loving, playful, and deeply in love.

Looking Ahead to Our Wedding at Turtle Point

Now, we’re counting down the days until we say “I do” at Turtle Point Yacht and Country Club wedding in Kilen, Alabama. We can’t wait to celebrate surrounded by our loved ones in such a beautiful setting. Even more than the big celebration, we’re most excited for the quiet moments we’ll share just the two of us—our first look, and sneaking away for a private meal before diving into the fun of the reception.

This season of engagement has been such a gift, and we can’t wait for what’s to come.

Looking for a Nashville, Tennessee wedding photographer? Collins and Collins Photography would love to tell your story!

Check back here for Bess and Dean’s wedding blog at Trinity Episcopal Church and Turtle Point Yacht and County Club.

Take a look at another engagement session from this summer in Hendersonville, Tennessee