Leave it to Ben Higgins to bring a little lightness to what has been feeling like a dark time in our world. Sorry ladies, he is no longer a “bachelor”! Ben has made it official with his beautiful girlfriend, now fiancé, Jess.
BE SURE TO SCROLL TO THE END FOR THE PROPOSAL VIDEO
While his original plan was to propose during the Bachelor Live On Stage tour in New York this spring, COVID-19 changed his course. Ben ended up popping the question in Jess’s hometown, Franklin, TN —making it more special. One thing I’ve learned about these two is how important family is to both of them. While still following the “stay at home” and “gatherings of less than 10 people” orders, it was made perfect by an intimate gathering and celebration with their parents and siblings. It was a memorable day, and I couldn’t have been more honored to witness and capture it.
I’ve witnessed many “surprise” proposals over the years, but Jess legitimately had no idea. After spending time with Ben’s parents in Indiana, Ben & Jess traveled down to Franklin, TN to quarantine with her parents and siblings. Little did she know, her family was in on the whole surprise. While sweats and no makeup seem to be the trend during this pandemic, Jess’s mom suggested having a formal family dinner that evening. Jess confusingly agreed. She was absolutely clueless as to the real reason she was “getting ready” that day. Sneaky, sneaky!
The whole family went about their day as usual, and around early evening before dinner, Ben suggested that the two of them take a little walk to get some fresh air. Ironically, the sun had finally come out in Tennessee at the perfect time.
While on their walk, it wasn’t until Ben took a sharp right turn off of their path, leading her down to a bench near a pond on her parents’ property, that Jess started wondering what was going on. I was hiding in the bushes, so it truly was a very private and intimate moment for the two of them. As they walked, with tears in his eyes, Ben began telling her how much he loved her, what he hoped for in their future, and how she was the most incredible person that he’s ever met. Tears streamed down her cheeks as he knelt down and asked her to be his wife.
SHE SAID YES!
Jess was still in shock as BOTH of their families walked towards them cheering (having no idea that Ben’s parents came to town). Side note: I LOVE how close their families already are, and I could see how special it was to Jess that Ben included their parents in such a special moment.
Ben had the ring custom designed by a Denver, Colorado jeweler, Gnat Jewelry. It was simply stunning.
P.S. Jess, you were glowing. You are going to make the most radiant bride!
The celebration continued as they popped champagne, clinked flutes with their loved ones, and toasted to a beautiful love story and a very special day.
Jess’s childhood best friend, Grace, showed up with her husband and joined the celebration. Jess’s brother, Jim, prepared an exquisite Indian meal for everyone. The house was filled with so much joy as they virtually shared the exciting news with other family members, poured more drinks, and danced in the kitchen. Thank you to the Higgins and Clarke family for making me feel like family and including me in the wonderful evening.
Ben and Jessica, I am thrilled for you guys that you have found each other and am excited to see what God has in store for your future together. It’s so evident that every path of your individual lives have led you to each other. You both have hearts of gold, and the way you each genuinely care for those around you so clearly shows that this is truly orchestrated by God, and is all part of His design. Between Generous Coffee and SweatNet, you two have already created such a positive impact on this world, and I can’t even imagine what’s to come!
Thank you for inspiring us all with your love story.
