Like all great stories, this one starts under a tree in Marilyn Bell Park. Jamie was racing for the first time on a premier-level dragon boat team and was excited to embark on all the challenges and excitement of more competitive racing. That day, her team won the race, and she also won the attention of a loud and friendly man named Matt. They talked a bit that day, but due to unforeseen circumstances, their interactions were limited to Zoom workouts for the next couple of years.

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Once dragon boat practices were back in person, Matt was determined to make his move and ask Jamie on a date. Following outrigger canoe time trials, as every aspect of their lives seems to involve paddling, Matt worked up the courage to ask Jamie to go shot for shot at a bar. Competitive as ever, Jamie accepted the challenge! Thankfully, this was de-escalated to ramen, and after their first kiss, sparks ignited.

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After dating for three years, Matt decided he wanted to propose, but it had to be a surprise. Despite a romantic trip to Italy and Switzerland (for paddling), Matt held off on proposing so Jamie wouldn't suspect a thing. Despite Jamie's continual requests, Matt remained steadfast that an engagement was still a few years away. Little did she know, as Christmas approached, Matt had already bought the ring. The plan was to surprise Jamie on the upcoming family ski trip. Matt had the ring, a supporting cast of siblings ready to capture the moment, and even Jamie's nails done courtesy of the maid of honour.

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What Matt didn't plan for was the hot mess his family would become while trying to keep the secret.

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On the big day, Jamie thought it was odd that everyone was smiling at her and being exceptionally friendly. When she casually asked about dinner plans, everyone except Andrew (Matt's brother) were babbling and flustered. The family was even discussing the proposal in the chalet WHILE Jamie was in the room next door. Thankfully, with a few swift smacks, some eyes that could kill, and Jamie's unobservant demeanour, Matt and Jamie left for dinner without any suspicions being raised.

Matt was dressed to the nines in his best peacoat, while Jamie ignored his suggestion to dress nicely and wore her yellow ski suit. During dinner, Matt seemed unusually sweaty but attributed it to the warm restaurant. He also kept disappearing to the washroom to secretly practice his question. Matt suggested they recreate a photo from their first trip to Tremblant, but Jamie protested that it was far too cold and that they could take the picture another day. Eventually, Matt convinced her to agree to just one photo, so they left the restaurant and headed toward the Christmas tree.

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On the walk over, Matt spotted his brother trying to hide behind a comically small fire pit, but Jamie did not. Then Matt spotted his dad in a bright blue jacket, but Jamie did not. As they approached the tree, Matt noticed his other brother and sister hiding in a snowbank, but all Jamie wanted to do was take the damn picture.

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As she posed facing toward the tree, Matt got down on one knee. When she turned around, the camera flashed, the air stood still, and Jamie said yes.

It's been a magnificent adventure for Jamie and Matt so far, and they know it is only the beginning. We look forward to celebrating our love with you soon.