Lauren & Chip in Alexandria, VA

“The moment I first saw Chip I knew there was something special about him,” says Lauren. Chip had spoken to Lauren several times through instant messenger. But their talks had always focused on their mutual friend -- Chip’s roommate and Lauren’s old high school friend, who had invited her to come to Colorado and attend a college formal. When she arrived, the connection with Chip was instantaneous and a long-distance relationship ensued. The Bride Lauren Culin, 27, school counselor The Groom Charles (Chip) Crispino, Jr., 27, consultant The Date August 16 Four years later, when an October storm disrupted Chip’s proposal plans, he got Lauren out of bed for Sunday brunch. He had secretly hired a photographer to catch the whole thing on film. While they were strolling around Jefferson Monument, Chip got the cue from the photographer in the distance. He dropped to one knee and Lauren immediately began to cry, eventually saying yes!