Nashville Proposal Takes Off in a Heartfelt Journey
This past Friday, all eyes turned to Houston as a young vision technician from Middle Tennessee took an unforgettable step in his romantic journey. Jack Lorey, who has been crafting a beautiful love story with his girlfriend, Erica Bonilla, decided that the moment had come to propose, and he had the perfect plan lined up with a little help from United Airlines.
A Flight With a Special Purpose
On October 11, Lorey boarded a one-way ticket at Nashville International Airport (BNA), setting his sights on Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). But this was no ordinary flight. As part of a surprise arranged by United, each passenger was handed a rose to present to Bonilla as they disembarked from the plane.
As excitement buzzed through the air, Lorey held onto the last rose, planning to take center stage for a moment that neither he nor Bonilla would soon forget. With a United plane backdropped behind them and the warmth of fellow travelers surrounding them, Lorey got down on one knee and popped the question right there on the tarmac, marking an incredibly romantic milestone.
A Love Story with a Twist
The love story between Lorey and Bonilla blossomed during a chance meeting in Florida. Lorey was attending a friend’s wedding while Bonilla was on a family vacation. They locked eyes from across the bar, and as fate would have it, Lorey took a leap of faith to introduce himself. “We clicked right away and both knew this was special,” Lorey shared, reflecting on their journey together over the last two years.
Despite being separated by hundreds of miles in a long-distance relationship, the pair made their connection work, flying back and forth every month, from Nashville to Houston. Lorey, originally from various places due to growing up in an Army family, had lived in Tennessee for about 14 years, while Bonilla proudly hails from Texas.
A Major Step Together
The proposal wasn’t just about the ring – it was a pivotal moment for them both. “Friday’s flight was actually our last long-distance flight,” Lorey revealed. “The weekend marks the start of Erica moving to Tennessee with me, and on top of that, it’s Erica’s birthday weekend!” What a way to celebrate a special occasion!
Leading up to the proposal, Lorey expressed his nerves and excitement. “I sent an email on a whim to United, and to have gotten their help to make this proposal happen is so cool. I am beyond grateful,” he said. There’s no denying that travel has played a huge role in their relationship, keeping them connected despite the distance.
Why United?
When asked what drew them to United Airlines for their many trips, Lorey cited their positive experiences. “United has always been good to us, and we were both familiar with the company,” he mentioned, acknowledging the support from Bonilla’s aunt, who works for the airline. Their loyalty only deepened when Lorey faced challenges after an injury that required significant surgery. United was accommodating during that tough time, allowing him to fly without issue.
A New Chapter Awaits
As their love story continues to unfold, Jack Lorey and Erica Bonilla are ready to embark on a new adventure together, leaving behind long-distance flights and welcoming a future filled with romance, travel, and maybe even more roses. Here’s to love, laughter, and happiness as they begin their journey as an engaged couple! Who wouldn’t want a proposal like that?
