Stories

Bluffton, SC — a dreamy coastal town that looks like a scene from a romantic movie. It’s here that Michael Kim married the love of his life, Riley Denihan.

When Michael knew Riley was the one, he spent months talking to her family and friends about the perfect proposal plan. He decided to pop the question on Riley’s birthday while the couple was vacationing with Riley’s family.

In August, Michael’s plan was set into action. He was going to propose to Riley right before they went out for a birthday dinner with her family. While Michael got through the morning and afternoon cool, calm and collected, the nerves finally kicked in as it got closer to dinner. After all, this was going to be one of the most important moments in his life!

He remembers sitting down and taking deep breaths, but he was confident in his plan. It rained all day, but as dinner was nearing, the rain finally subsided, and Michael followed through with his original plan — to propose on a boardwalk by the beach.

With the help of Riley’s brother, father, and mother, Michael created the perfect backdrop. Riley’s brother set up rose petals and candles on the boardwalk while Riley’s mom distracted her so she wouldn’t come downstairs too early. And the real hero — Riley’s dad — who hid in a car outside (with no A/C!), was waiting to capture the moment on camera.

When Riley came down to the boardwalk, she had no idea Michael was about to propose. In fact, she was taking pictures of him standing at the end of the boardwalk before she came closer. Then, Michael said a few words he had been rehearsing, got down on one knee and asked Riley to marry him. Michael knew she was in complete shock because after saying “yes,” she didn’t take the ring right away!

And Riley’s ring — what a beauty. The cushion cut diamond on a micropavé band was designed by William Goldberg.

After lots of hugging, FaceTiming family, and more photos, the whole family went out for dinner to celebrate the engagement and Riley’s birthday. As Michael recalls:

The couple wed on July 30, 2022, at the Montage Palmetto Bluff, a riverside resort nestled among sweeping marshlands and live oak trees. On their wedding day, Riley wore a breathtaking gown from Monique Lhuillier. She accessorized with jewelry borrowed from her mother: an ASHOKA_® Diamond Infinity Necklace, ASHOKA_® Sapphire Micropavé Ring (her something blue), diamond bracelet, and diamond stud earrings.

William Goldberg was honored to play a part in this unforgettable wedding day. Here’s to love stories that shine with timeless elegance. Congratulations to the newlyweds, Michael and Riley!