PW Reader Ring: Ashley & Dave!

Ashley’s ring!

The couple: Ashley Piotrowski andDave Skinner from Philadelphia.

The ring: The round center stone was my aunt’s, who lost her fight to breast cancer about four years ago. When Dave and I started talking about getting engaged, my cousin graciously offered the diamond to us. My aunt and I were extremely close, so it means the world to me that I not only get to wear her diamond every day, but that she is such a huge part of our lives going forward.

I had helped Dave pick out the setting, which is by Simon G, a few months ago at Golden Nugget Jewelers. I wanted something that would really put the center stone on a pedestal and showcase it.

The proposal: Dave had just finished running the Philly Marathon—his very first marathon—when he got down on one knee at the finish line and asked me to be his wife! I was in complete shock!

Dave surprising Ashley after running the Philly Marathon.

All of my friends (and future bridesmaids!) were there, along with his parents and sister. I thought everyone was just coming along to watch Dave finish the marathon. Little did I know my best friend had the ring with her the entire time, and then slipped it to Dave when I wasn’t paying attention.

This was such an amazing surprise! I’m still in complete shock because Dave is such an unbelievably private person, so for him to include all of my closest friends and his family absolutely meant the world to me!

The band: Not sure yet, but I would like to keep it simple—less is always more!

Read other PW Reader Ring stories here. 

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