4-day vigil rings wedding bells | Hawkes Bay News | Local News in Hawkes Bay

AMANDA GRAY

Applause and smiles of joy accompanied Chris Richards and Danielle Monk, as they left the Michael Hill Jewellers Hastings store as a newly-engaged couple this morning.

Chris proposed to Danielle on bended knee after successfully buying the diamond bridal set of rings worth $1095, for a dollar.

Camped outside the Heretaunga Street store since Monday afternoon, the Hastings 23-year-old braved the cold of three long nights to be the first in the store at opening time today.

His girlfriend, Danielle, camped out with him every night, but thought he would propose in November on the anniversary of their meeting.

She was speechless when Chris proposed this morning and was still shaking afterwards.

"I had no idea," she said.

Chris was unfazed by his camping experience outside the store.

"It was well worth the wait," he said with a smile.

Champagne, feather boas, mood music and bubbles in the air celebrated the happy couple's engagement.

Staff and other shoppers offered their congratulations.

A gold and diamond bracelet was also bought for Danielle by her mother, Linda.

And Danielle's brother, Jason, who was also in the queue from Tuesday afternoon, bought an $85 ring for $1.