Monday was a big night for bachelors everywhere. Not only for ABC's "The Bachelor" and the finale that aired, but also for one lucky local bachelor and his sweetheart.
They'd been wanting to get engaged for a while, but for second year UK Dental School students Thad Schroeder and Kristina Neda it wasn't financially likely.
"We're kind of making sure everything took a backseat to dental school," said Thad.
So when the couple of two years saw a promo for the Rivard Jewelers engagement ring giveaway, Kristina gave the nudge.
"I'm really glad that I made him watch The Bachelor because that's how he found out about the contest and he applied for it behind my back,” smiled Kristina.
A couple days before the giveaway, Thad found out he not only was a finalist, but he won, a secret he kept carefully. He hid the ring where Kristina would least suspect it - in her apartment under her own bed. He says she slept just feet from the ring for a few nights.
Finally, on Monday night - the moment of truth. Thad popped up on TV during a commercial. And then he popped the question in person, getting down on one knee.
After getting over the shock, Kristine wasted no time showing off her bling - a $10,000 Christopher Designs Crisscut diamond ring.
"It is beautiful. I couldn't have imagined a better ring ever. It’s amazing. I love it," Kristina said while wiping away some happy tears.
"We couldn't have found a better couple for it. They're so enthusiastic and make just a wonderful couple,” said Brandon Rivard of Rivard Fine Jewelry. “They have a great extraordinary future ahead of them and we are just so happy to be a part of it."
Now for Thad, no more secrets, just enjoying the moment with his best friend.
"I'm so happy and so in love. Thank you all," said Kristina.
"This is a dream come true,” added Thad. “Thank you guys."
