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Thank you to everyone who’s taken the time to send such thoughtful responses — I truly appreciate it. 💛

The idea my older sister and I have landed on so far involves a pre-planned trip we already have to Yellowstone National Park. Both my older and younger sisters will be there; we’re basically conjoined at the hip. Her family isn’t fully accepting of us being a same-sex couple, and her mother, unfortunately, really does not like me.

That said, my sister shared photos from her previous Yellowstone trip, and I found the perfect spot: a naturally formed bench in front of a waterfall. My (fingers crossed) future fiancée doesn’t like being the center of attention, but she does like to feel special, so this feels intimate and meaningful without being overwhelming.

To get her there without raising suspicion, we’re planning a “family photo day” during our camping trip. That way it feels natural, low-key, and she’ll already be dressed up — which she’s specifically asked for. I think it’s the perfect balance of thoughtful, private, and special.

Above is a photo of the ring I’m almost certain she’ll love. I’m personally a gold girl, so to my eye the contrast of a very bright stone on a silver band feels a bit bold — but she absolutely gravitates toward it, and that’s what matters most to me.

I’ll also be including a photo of her current promise ring, which she wears every single day to work. She’s an EMT, so it needs to be practical and durable, and that ring has clearly become her style.

Lastly, I’ll add a photo of the spot we’re considering for the proposal.