Freddie & Brian in Savannah, GA

“I do believe in love at first sight, but it didn’t happen to either one of us,” says Freddie. She and Brian hung out with the same circle of friends for about four years before sparks flew. Then one Christmas everything changed. The Bride Freddie Geppert, 28, an elementary school teacher The Groom Brian Eklund, 28, a construction project manager The Date May 24 They were soon buying a house together and then, two-and-a-half years later, Brian proposed to Freddie with a humorous twist. During one of their weekly date nights, Brian got down on one knee and pulled out a four-carat pink stone set. Freddie cringed, but held her tongue and said yes. Then, Brian asked her if she wanted to see her “real ring.” “It was perfect!” says Freddie.