Making Memorable Moments at Hudson Valley's Country Manor

What is more memorable than a wedding, especially when the wedding was given away in a time of economic hardship? "Hudson Valley's Country Manor" created lasting memories as one of 18 participating hotels who generously bestowed a free wedding to one fortunate couple. Over 60 entries were sent in describing stories (in 50 words or less!) about their most romantic memorable moment. All were vying for the chance of the grand prize - a wedding valued over $10,000 - at this beautiful countryside setting in Mt. Kisco, New York.

There were stories about proposals under the Christmas tree; a helicopter displaying a banner with the words "I love you" written in the sky; a blind date at an ice-skating rink which turned into a proposal seven years later at the same rink; a cartoon drawing of the couple together in a vacation spot where they always wanted to go; and many, many more romantic tales. The chosen winner struck a heart string with a poem:

"It all began on our June '09 vacation.
To our favorite Outer Banks location.
Little did I know what he had in store,
A proposal down by the shore.
At the lighthouse on one knee,
This is just the beginning for you and me!"

Laura Goldin and Scott Olson were the lucky winners that night, and the nine other finalists won $100 Memorable Moments gift cards to be used on future travel! Everyone was a winner that night, whether or not they won a wedding - Love was in the air!

What are your most memorable and romantic moments with a loved one? Would your story win a free wedding? Share it with us!