Hayley and Will, Arvada, CO
How did you and your significant other meet?
Working at a restaurant. Hayley was a server, and Will worked in the back of house. After a few months, Hayley left to be a corporate 9-5er (as Will says), and Will went on to be Kitchen Manager & Chef. But, they stayed in touch :).
As a couple, what are your interests/hobbies?
We are a basic, cliche annoying Colorado couple. We enjoy hiking, skiing, fishing, and camping. Our favorite way to combine hobbies is to hike to an alpine lake, where Hayley can read a book while Will catches trout!
When did you know your partner was “the one” and you wanted to get married?
Hayley: I knew first, it was by our second date. We spent the day at Rocky Mountain National Park, hanging out at Lochvale in the rain. Will: When we went camping in Steamboat a few weeks later, it was a chilly fall weekend and the leaves were just past their peak. It just felt easy, simple, and fun.
What is one of your favorite things about your partner?
Hayley: He is entirely his own person, super ambitious but forges his own path. He is unlike anyone I’ve ever met, he just attracts goodness into his life by being kind and authentic. But he can also be spicy, so he reminds me of a sour patch kid. Will: She is headstrong and likes to do things her own way, but she likes to take the time to care for others needs too even if she won’t admit it. She also loves and won’t kill bugs, even ants. She also reminds me of a sour patch kid.
What was your proposal like (was the ring a surprise or was it collaborative)?
We collaborated on it. The ring/diamond originally belonged to Hayley’s Nana, and Hayley knew she wanted to do something creative but somewhat classic with it. Will proposed in the Amazon Rainforest in Peru, and that part was a surprise!
Tell us about your wedding (if it has happened yet).
It will be at a lakeside lodge in Maine, in 2026!
Why did you decide to work with Balefire?
Besides their beautiful, innovative designs. We liked the collaboration and personal attention we were able to receive. As the designer, Jamie really took the time to get to know us and what we wanted, it felt like working with a friend rather than a salesperson.
What advice would you give to other couples shopping for wedding or engagement rings?
Don’t overthink it. There are so many beautiful designs for engagement rings, Pinterest can be paralyzing. Go with what feels the most “you.” Even if that changes, your ring will always represent the “you” that existed during this pivotal moment of your life.
What is the name and social media links for the photographer to credit for any photos you shared with us?
Hayleyrisse and MplsOutdoors
