As most people know, Xavier was on the CBS TV show ‘Big Brother’ and won season 23. Before his stardom, he attended Spring Arbor University. Xavier played basketball and I played soccer. The athletes at SAU were usually good friends, always supporting and cheering each other on, which is how we became friends! 

Planning the Proposal

When Xavier knew he was going to propose, he reached out to me to see if I would photograph it. I was so happy that he found his person and of course, said I would love to help him capture it! The Friday before the proposal, I drove down to Grand Rapids from Traverse City. We met at MDRD (pronounced “Madrid”) to scope it out. MDRD is a beautiful restaurant on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. It was also a meaningful location for the proposal because it’s the couple’s favorite restaurant in Grand Rapids.

I was in awe of the space when we first arrived. The restaurant overlooks the Grand River and downtown Grand Rapids. To make it even more romantic, Xavier chose to propose on the balcony outside. He told me his plan and I couldn’t wait to watch it unfold the next day.

The “YES!” Day

On the day of the proposal, Xavier sent Kenzie and her friend all around Grand Rapids to special places, while he stayed back at the hotel to set everything up. One of the special places he had planned for her to go was The BOB, a place special to them, as it’s where they met!

While Kenzie was out and about, Xavier put large, white foam letters that spelled out “Marry Me” on the balcony at MDRD. We also placed white and red rose petals on the ground with the ring box, holding the beautiful diamond ring from Rogers and Hollands, placed in the middle.

Xavier brought up their families and friends to a private room upstairs in MDRD overlooking the balcony so they would be able to watch the proposal. At this point, Kenzie had no idea they were there. Some of their family and friends even flew into Grand Rapids for the special moment. 

Kenzie arrived to the hotel with a blindfold on that read “Mrs. Prather.” Her friend guided her to Xavier, who then took her hand. Both of them, shaking in excitement, walked to the balcony. I held the door open to the beautiful setup as Xavier removed her blindfold and walked her out. He popped the question and she said “Yes!” The two of them were so sweet and giddy and made their way up to their family and friends, who greeted them with smiles and happy tears. 

After many hugs and a champagne toast by Xavier, the couple spent the rest of the evening celebrating with their favorite people. Xavier made the day so special and memorable for not only his future wife but also for the people that mean the most to them. Cheers to Xavier and the future Mrs. Prather!

P.S. There are now many, many news articles about this story. Check them out here! People, Enews, Entertainment Tonight, ET Canada, US Weekly, Daily Mail, Yahoo! News