MN Couple Competing for Dream Wedding Shares Their Story [WATCH]
Kristin Hilsgen and Bryan Wick are just days away from finding out if they've won their dream wedding, but in the meantime they're sharing their story for others to get to know them.
Earlier this month, the St. Cloud couple learned that they had been selected out of over 100 entries to be Top 10 Finalists in Carlos Creek Winery's Dream Wedding Giveaway. Over
Now, the pair is up against six other Minnesota couples as well as couples from Iowa, Wisconsin and Washington D.C. The Top 10 Finalists have all been asked to share an introductory video of themselves and their story, which are then shared at Carlos Creek Winery/22 Northmen Brewing social media channels. Kristin and Bryan's story was shared online Wednesday.
The couple met in 2013 when Kristin moved back to St. Cloud to care for her dad. She began working at House of Pizza as a bartender; Bryan was managing and delivering.
"The moment I saw Kristin, I knew she was the one," Bryan says. It took some time before they began dating, however, as Kristen was already in a serious relationship.
"After about six months, I realized what a guy could actually treat a woman like," Kristin shares. "I ended up breaking up with my boyfriend. Bryan and I just remained friends, for probably another six months, and Bryan told me that he loved me, and then asked me to be his girlfriend. And I said I love you, too."
After a trip to Duluth (during which Bryan intended to propose to Kristin) fell through, he opted for a simpler surprise. On their anniversary last year, he had each of their children Jack and Madison pick out a flower for her, dropped down on one knee and asked her to marry him.
"It was perfect," says Kristin.
Over their 6+ years together, they've faced their share of challenges. Their son Jack was diagnosed with Autism. To provide for his therapy sessions, Bryan went back to school while Kristin continued working nights. In 2016 Kristin's dad -- who they were taking care of as well -- was diagnosed with congestive heart failure; he passed away in 2019. In 2017 they welcomed their daughter Madison.
A dream wedding from Carlos Creek Winery would be "amazing," says Kristin, "something more than we would ever be able to plan or do on our own."
Comments in the video's comment section have shown nothing but support for the couple.
"What a wonderful couple!" raves Erica Sherr. "So deserving!! I really hope you consider these 2 because they truly are hard working and have put their kids/ families needs before their own!"
"Love these two! So deserving of this honor at the gorgeous Carlos Creek!" says Doug Alkire.
"These two are the real deal!" praises Lori Reinert. "They put everyone first , including the community!"
The dream wedding hosted by Carlos Creek Winery, 22 Northmen Brewing and multiple local vendors is valued at $26,545 including rental of The Grand Hall at Bold North Cellars for up to 150 guests ($7,600); social hour hosted by 22 Northmen Beer & Carlos Creek Wine ($1,050); Depot Express Catering buffet or plated dinner for up to 150 guests ($6,000); wedding party floral with MBaumann Design Company ($1,500); 4 hours of shuttle service from Hart Travel ($625); 8 hours of photography from Design Studio by Stacy ($2,800); music, sound, lighting, & MCing for the wedding reception by Beautiful Day DJ ($1,495); custom 3-tier cake & 150 cupcakes by Dough-Phoria ($500); a 360º video booth/premier photo booth from Alexandria Photo Booth ($3,400) and more.
Kristin and Bryan will be notified August 5 if they are a Top 5 Finalist and August 6 if they are the winner or runner-up for the Dream Wedding Giveaway.
Good luck Kristin and Bryan!
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