A marriage proposal, Tofino style

After ring slips away, couple spend 18 hours frantically searching beach

It wasn’t the story Darrin Reimer had in mind when he planned how he would propose to his fiancé Caitlin McAuley during a visit to Tofino, B.C.

Reimer wrote a poem that spoke to the personal connection between the couple. He also had a custom-made ring called Eternal Flame symbolizing the growth of their relationship.

Everything came together under a Pacific sky when McAuley said yes – only to take a bizarre turn moments later when the ring slipped from the bride-to-be’s rain-soaked finger.
 
They were standing on the beach in Cox Bay, with the tide coming in and the rain coming down.

“We were trying to find it in the dark and it was raining,” McAuley told the Canadian Press. “We got some flashlights and we were back out in the morning as soon as it was daylight.”

The couple were helped by locals, including Tofino residents Keith and Norma Jamieson who used a metal detector to eventually find the ring.

Wedding Tofino      


The local RCMP and Tofino tourism officials also joined the search. The CP story has been picked up by media outlets across the country. The happy ending could even provide a boon to Tofino, B.C. tourism – it certainly hasn’t hurt the couple’s start at a life together.

“We ended up sticking together really well,” Reimer told CP. “I said we know now how we deal with each other in stressful situations.”

West Coast romance
Tofino, B.C. is a popular destination for newlyweds and for people looking for a romantic setting to pop the question.
Long Beach Lodge Resort offers lovers special packages that include:
  • Two nights accommodation in a Deluxe Beachfront Room
  •   A romantic 3-course gourmet dinner for two in the Great Room with West Coast decor and spectacular views of Cox Bay beach and the wild Pacific surf. Customized wine pairings available upon request.
  • Two glasses of sparkling BC wine with dinner
  • Romantic turn down service with rose petals and chocolate covered strawberries delivered to your room while you are at dinner
  •   Sea Wench soy massage candle
  • Breakfast for two in the privacy of your room or in the casual elegance of the Great Room
  • Use of the luxurious facilities in the Surf Club Adventure Centre including the outdoor hot tub and sauna



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