Wedding Bells Again: Iyanna McNeely’s Romantic Proposal and Dream Destination Plans

Iyanna McNeely, best known for her time on Netflix’s reality dating experiment Love Is Blind, has found her happily-ever-after outside of the pods and television cameras. After a publicized rollercoaster romance and subsequent divorce from her former husband Jarrette Jones, the 30-year-old star is turning a new page in her love story with Alexander Lewis, a corporate attorney and Yale Law graduate. Their journey, while devoid of pod walls and reality TV dramatics, is equally captivating, filled with serendipity, thoughtful gestures, and dreams of a bright future together.

A Love Not Blinded by Reality TV

McNeely’s first brush with love on Love Is Blind was far from smooth sailing. She and Jarrette Jones connected after Jones’ initial proposal to Mallory Zapata fell through, casting an early shadow on their relationship. Despite marrying in the show’s finale, their union was marred by unresolved tensions, allegations of infidelity, and conflicting life paths. Their divorce, finalized in November 2022, marked the end of an era and a step toward new beginnings for McNeely.

Enter Alexander Lewis, a sharp-witted attorney with an eye for humor and heart. But Lewis’ introduction to McNeely’s past as a reality TV star wasn’t immediate—or even intentional. It wasn’t until their second date that the bride-to-be revealed her history on Love Is Blind.

“He had never seen the show,” McNeely admits, reflecting on the potentially awkward moment. “It was pretty embarrassing telling him that not only was I on it, but I also got married and divorced from it.” However, Lewis handled the revelation with grace. Their connection grew, proving that real love doesn’t need a script or a reality show spotlight.

A Modern-Day Fairytale

While their romance didn’t begin in the Love Is Blind pods, it still had a modern touch—swiping right on a dating app in the fall of 2023. McNeely was drawn to Lewis’ intelligence and humor, while Lewis found himself captivated by her radiant smile and lively energy. Their first date, a simple yet enchanting three-hour walk along Chicago’s Lake Shore with hot chocolate in hand, set the stage for their budding romance.

Over the next year, the couple deepened their bond. McNeely, who once opened her heart to the world on TV, found something deeply private and personal in her relationship with Lewis. “The relationship has been such smooth sailing,” she shares. “We genuinely enjoy each other’s company and are wildly complementary. We’re very excited to take this next step together.”

The Proposal: A Night to Remember

On a chilly December evening, Alexander Lewis orchestrated a proposal that was equal parts romantic and meticulously planned. After a date night watching The Nutcracker at Chicago’s Civic Opera House, the couple headed to The Rookery, a historic architectural gem. Unbeknownst to McNeely, Lewis had rented the building, hired a violinist, and arranged for renowned photographer Jason Kaczorowski to capture the moment.

With a dazzling oval-cut diamond ring from the Michael M collection in hand, Lewis got down on one knee. The intimate proposal brought McNeely to tears of joy. “It was a beautiful private engagement,” she recalls. “After the initial shock, I cried such happy tears.” The night continued with a celebratory dinner at Mako, one of their favorite omakase restaurants.

Dreams of a Destination Wedding

The newly engaged couple is now in the midst of planning their wedding, a process McNeely describes as “still in the works.” They are considering several potential locations: Mexico City for its vibrant culture, Portugal for its stunning landscapes, or Chicago, the city where their love story began. Each location carries its own charm and significance, mirroring the multifaceted nature of their relationship.

Whether they exchange vows in a bustling urban center or a serene European locale, one thing is certain: the wedding will be a reflection of their journey, blending elegance, intimacy, and the joy of two people who’ve truly found their match.

Life Beyond the Limelight

McNeely’s new chapter with Lewis is a testament to the resilience of love and the possibility of finding it in unexpected places. While Love Is Blind brought her fame and challenges, it also set her on a path to personal growth and, eventually, to Lewis.

For her, this relationship represents a shift from the public scrutiny of her reality TV days to a more grounded and fulfilling connection. “He’s truly my partner in every sense,” McNeely shares. “We complement each other and have so much fun together. It feels so natural.”

Looking Ahead

As McNeely and Lewis prepare for their next chapter, they are proof that love can flourish in the most unconventional ways. Their story—rooted in mutual respect, shared humor, and thoughtful connection—reminds us that life’s best surprises often come after the most challenging chapters.

For fans of McNeely, her engagement offers a hopeful epilogue to the trials and tribulations of her time on Love Is Blind. And for those watching from the sidelines, her journey is a beautiful reminder: while love may not always be blind, it’s always worth the wait.