Exactly one year to the day after mutual friends introduced Kelly Gannon and Raymond Escorpizo in Maui, Hawaii, the couple returned to the island to enjoy a vacation together. Much to Gannon's surprise, Escorpizo got down on one knee and proposed to her during a moonlight dinner at an oceanside restaurant.

Since the August proposal, the couple, who live in different cities (Gannon in Atlanta and Escorpizo in Manassas, Va.), have been busy planning their spring nuptials without the help of a professional wedding planner.

Jermaine Cook / Special (ENLARGE)

Kelly Gannon and Raymond Escorpizo

"We're doing it ourselves," she said. "It's coming along. We still have a few more details."

With the help of family, friends and the prizes she won in the AJC Great Bridal Giveaway, Gannon has planned a ceremony to be held in April at All Saints Catholic Church in Dunwoody. The reception will be at the Dunwoody Country Club.

"Each individual prize is so much fun to use," said Gannon, who entered the contest on the suggestion of her roommate's mom. "It's been such a great experience."

Although Gannon is enjoying all the prizes, she said she and Escorpizo are looking forward to the three-night stay at the Ginn Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla.

The couple will begin their honeymoon at the Florida resort. From there, they will head to St. Lucia.

PRIZE LIST

• Bridal luncheon from McCormick & Schmick's, valued at $250

• $500 off a wedding gown from Priscilla of Boston

• Engagement ring from Jewel Tech, valued at $1,000

• Cosmetic laser procedure from Tuxedo Cosmetic Laser and Surgery, valued at $500

• $500 off a wedding reception at La Grotta Ristorante Italiano

• $500 toward a wedding cake from Henri's Bakery

• Bridesmaids' dresses from Jé Belles Formal Boutique, valued at $500

• $300 gift certificate to Hill Street Warehouse

• A bridal shower at Chocolate Pink Pastry Café, valued at $500

For information on entering the next AJC Great Bridal Giveaway, see the ad in this section or go to www.ajc.com/celebrations. The deadline to enter is March 16.

RELATED LINKS:

• Georgia, nearby states perfect for destination weddings

• Expert advice to avoid wedding disasters

• AJC bridal giveaway winners

• Read more wedding articles on our Celebrations channel