✨Magic in the Orchard: A Proposal Story That’ll Make You Believe in Destiny✨

Can’t Say No To Sara….

So we’re packing up our camera gear, thinking we’re done filming, when Sara (one of the staff) comes bouncing over with this contagious smile. And you know me—I can NEVER say no to one more story, especially when someone’s practically glowing with excitement to tell it.

“You guys HAVE to hear this,” she says. “And trust me, you’re gonna want that camera rolling.”

Sara then launches into how during her very first week working at Wilson’s, Jacob Goering (the co-owner) gives her this top-secret assignment. I’m talking about undercover-mission-level secrecy. Her job? To covertly capture photos and videos of a surprise proposal about to go down in the orchard.

Get this—the couple had flown all the way from San Diego, California! And the bride-to-be? Completely clueless about what was about to happen.

But here’s where it gets wild. In an incredible twist of fate, they found out that Grant, the future groom, was connected to Jacob’s grandfather when he mentioned he grew up in Solon, IA and was super familiar with the Iowa City location. That’s when Grant asked Jacob if he knew his grandfather and then everyone realized their past connection. How incredible is that?

So picture this perfect scene: They’re taking the apple orchard tour, and while the unsuspecting girlfriend, Evie, is taking in the views, admiring the trees and that gorgeous Iowa landscape, her boyfriend is quietly dropping to one knee behind her. When she turns around—BOOM—there he is, ring in hand, ready to change their lives forever.

Sara said the look on her face was PRICELESS. Pure shock, followed by the happiest “YES!” and tears streaming down her face.

But wait, it gets even better. After the proposal, Sara and Jacob learns that the bride-to-be is Chinese lived in Shanghai – that’s when Jacob told her he used to live there for a while and absolutely loved it. They spoke Mandarin back-and-forth shortly after. 

I mean, COME ON! What are the odds? This couple from California, with a Chinese heritage bride-to-be, getting engaged at an orchard in IOWA owned by a guy who who has a family connection with the groom to be, Grant, but also speaks the bride’s native language?

The universe conspiring to create the perfect moment? Whatever it is, it’s beautiful. Think about it—this guy managed to weave together his family’s past, their shared heritage, and their future into one perfect moment. And he did it in a place that, on the surface, seems completely random but is actually woven with all these meaningful connections.

Is it a Coincidence? Destiny?

The universe conspiring to create the perfect moment? Whatever it is, it’s beautiful. Think about it—this guy managed to weave together his family’s past, their shared heritage, and their future into one perfect moment. And he did it in a place that, on the surface, seems completely random but is actually woven with all these meaningful connections.

Sara was like, “Not a bad first week on the job, right?” Talk about setting the bar high! Can you imagine? Your first assignment is to secretly document one of the most magical moments in someone’s life, and then you discover all these incredible layers to the story.

These are the moments that make Wilson’s so much more than just a farm or orchard. It’s where memories are planted, where stories take root, where connections—both to the land and to each other—grow into something beautiful.

And THAT, my friend, is exactly why I can’t shut up about this place. Wilson’s isn’t just growing apples and berries—they’re growing moments that change people’s lives. And sometimes, if you’re lucky like Sara, you get to witness the magic firsthand.

Beyond weddings and private events, Wilson’s has created a year-round calendar of community gatherings. Monthly yoga sessions, painting workshops, and crafting experiences led by local artists bring people together even in the quieter seasons. During summer months, “Sunday Funday” features local bands playing on the patio, free for anyone to enjoy.

Keeping It Simple

Vonnie

Copyright:

© 2025 Vonnie Potter @JaaiBirch, LLC All rights reserved.

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Information about Wilson’s Orchard & Farm is shared with permission and is accurate as of [Month Year]. While we strive to maintain accuracy, please visit Wilson’s Orchard & Farm’s official website for the most current information about their offerings and events.

Photography credits: Wilson’s.