The age-old tradition of asking a bride-to-be’s parents for their blessing before proposing marriage took a delightful turn when Matt Hazen decided to seek approval from the most important “person” in his girlfriend Alex’s life – her golden retriever, Gus. This heartwarming gesture, captured in a TikTok video, quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of millions with its genuine sweetness and undeniable cuteness.
A Paw-some Proposal: The Viral TikTok Video That Melted Hearts
In November 2021, Matt Hazen planned a surprise proposal for his girlfriend, Alex, at the scenic Lookout Mountain Park in Colorado. However, before popping the question, he made sure to get the blessing of Alex’s beloved six-month-old golden retriever, Gus. The heartwarming moment was captured on video and shared on TikTok, where it quickly amassed over 6 million views and nearly 800,000 likes. Even a repost of the video years later continued to garner hundreds of thousands of views and comments.
The video shows Matt down on one knee, addressing Gus with the utmost sincerity. “I’m gonna ask momma to marry me, is that okay?” he asks the adorable pup. Gus, seemingly understanding the gravity of the situation, responds with an enthusiastic bark of approval. Overjoyed, Matt seals the deal with a paw-shake, saying, “Oh, you like that idea? Okay, let’s shake on it then.”
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The internet’s reaction to the video was overwhelmingly positive, with comments ranging from “If my man doesn’t ask my dogs first I’m not saying yes,” to playful puns like “Ah yes, the most im-paw-tant paw-son to ask paw-mission.” The video resonated with pet lovers and anyone who appreciates a truly heartfelt gesture. It solidified Gus’s role not just as a beloved pet, but as a crucial member of their growing family.
More Than Just a Joke: The Story Behind the Sweet Gesture
Alex revealed in an interview with PEOPLE that the idea of asking Gus for permission wasn’t entirely out of the blue. “I had joked that Matt better ask Gus’ permission before proposing,” she explained. The couple often playfully narrates Gus’s thoughts, creating a running joke that Matt clearly took to heart. He understood the deep bond between Alex and Gus and wanted to incorporate that into his proposal. For Alex, it wasn’t just about the gesture itself, but the fact that Matt remembered a seemingly insignificant comment and turned it into a beautiful and memorable moment. “It meant so much that he remembered a silly little joke I made in passing,” she shared.
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From Proposal to Wedding: A Love Story That Continues
Matt and Alex, who first met in 2014 through mutual friends, eventually tied the knot in Charleston, South Carolina, on November 7, 2023. While Gus, now a three-year-old, couldn’t be physically present at the wedding, his presence was deeply felt. Alex revealed that Gus was included in both her and Matt’s vows, a testament to his important role in their lives. “I imagine one day our grandkids will ask me about how I knew I loved you,” Alex shared with Matt during their ceremony. “I’ll tell them about the night we met, our first house, our first dog, the beautiful life we’ve built together.”
This touching sentiment underscores the enduring impact of that initial proposal video. It wasn’t just about a viral moment; it was about the foundation of their relationship, built on love, shared laughter, and the unwavering companionship of a furry friend. Gus, the golden retriever who stole the internet’s heart, continues to play a central role in their happily ever after. Their story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the grandest gestures of love are found in the smallest, most thoughtful actions. It also showcases the powerful bond between humans and their pets, and how these furry companions can become integral parts of our most cherished memories.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gus Proposal
Q: Where did the proposal take place?
A: The proposal took place at Lookout Mountain Park in Colorado.
Q: How old was Gus when Matt asked for his permission?
A: Gus was six months old at the time of the proposal.
Q: When did Matt and Alex get married?
A: They got married in Charleston, South Carolina, on November 7, 2023.
Q: Was Gus at the wedding?
A: While Gus wasn’t physically present, he was mentioned in both Matt and Alex’s wedding vows.
Q: How did Alex react to the video?
A: Alex commented on TikTok that she cries almost every time she watches the video and that the gesture meant the world to her.
