After Nine Years Together, This Groom’s Proposal Included Their Daughter in the Sweetest Way
Photos by Alexis Brooke Photography
Mutual friends introduced Heather Rhoads and Timothy Lehman after Timothy saw a picture of her and requested a meeting. Sparks didn’t exactly fly at first — “I did not like him,” says Heather, while Timothy thought she was cute but wasn’t sure it would lead to anything — but they found more common ground over dinner at a steakhouse.
Fast forward seven-and-a-half years. Timothy is at home with the couple’s daughter, while Heather is out getting her nails done for a wedding they’ll be attending later that weekend. Timothy calls Heather to ask if she’ll come home so they can get dinner started. When Heather walks through the door, she is greeted by their daughter, who is wearing a shirt that says, “Mommy will you marry my Daddy?” She’s also holding a ring box. Timothy bends on one knee to ask the question himself, then leads Heather, who is pregnant with their second daughter, to a huge bouquet of pink roses on the kitchen table.
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“I was completely shocked and did not see it coming,” says Heather, who was more than used to Timothy’s “ten year plan” jokes about their relationship at this point.
One-and-a-half years later, the couple hosted a “rustic blingy” wedding at Herman & Luther’s in central Pennsylvania. Though the forecast called for clear skies, a surprise rainstorm hit an hour before the ceremony, but the skies cleared just in time for Timothy and Heather to exchange vows outside. They both cried during what they each agree was the most sentimental part of the day.
“It’s been a long journey for us after being together for nine years with many ups and downs, but we truly know we’re meant to be together and couldn’t imagine our lives without each other,” says Heather.
At the reception, guests noshed on coconut, orange creamiscle, and chocolate-and-peanut-butter cupcakes for dessert, and were later treated to a gourmet popcorn bar in lieu of favors. The couple, who swayed to “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel for their first dance, honeymooned in Punta Cana, then returned home to Williamsport, where Heather is an accountant and Timothy is a laborer.
VENDORS
Photography: Alexis Brooke Photography | Venue & Catering: Herman & Luther’s | Bride’s Gown: Morilee By Madeline Gardnere from Diamonds & Lace Bridal and Social Occasion | Bridesmaid Dresses: Alfred Angelo from The Amber Rose Bridal | Groom’s Attire: The Amber Rose Bridal | Hair & Makeup: Altogether Beautiful Salon & Spa | Florist: Hometown Floral & Gifts | Music: Brad Gibson | Invitations: The Print Shoppe | Transportation: Liberty Limo | Popcorn Bar: Incredible Popcorn | Photo Booth: Premier Photo Booth
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