Katerina & Elliot in Toronto, Ontario

It's a wonder we ever met! says Katerina Svanda of her husband, Elliot Muchnik. After the two were introduced, something came up every time they tried to make plans. Luckily, the two eventually sorted out their schedules, and according to Kat though it may sound cliché, they've been inseparable since. THE BRIDE Katerina Svanda, 27, a pharmaceutical sales representative THE GROOM Elliot Muchnik, 33, Vice President and managing director for a national brokerage firm THE DATE September 12 After dating just nine months, Elliot planned an elaborate Easter weekend proposal. The couple opted to spend the holiday at their friends' lake home, and when they arrived at the cottage, Elliot quickly led Katerina around to the dock so they could enjoy the time before everyone else gets here. Before she knew it, he was down on one knee, asking her to marry him! After she said yes, the couple went inside, where Elliot had another surprise waiting. Their friends had in fact lent them the cottage for a romantic weekend alone, and the day before Elliot had driven up and filled the space with orchids, candles, and champagne. The two toasted their engagement while Elliot prepared dinner, accented by a centerpiece of two Swarovski crystal swans, since I once told him swans pair up for life, Katerina says.