Amanda & James in Pittsboro, NC

Not even an ice storm could deter James from his plan to spend the weekend at his parent's mountain house with Amanda. THE BRIDE Amanda Harmon, 27 THE GROOM James Johnson, 29 THE DATE August 2 Only James' mother -- who had gone up earlier to set up aromatic candlelight, streams of ribbons, silver heart garlands, roses, wine, and a fire burning in the gigantic stone fireplace -- could understand his persistence. I was in complete shock, remembers Amanda upon entering the North Carolina cabin. Because if there is one thing James is not, it's romantic -- but he's working on it! James got down on one knee and, taking her (right!) hand, proposed.