The Vampire Diaries actress Nina Dobrev, 35, and Olympic snowboarder Shaun White, 38, are officially engaged! The couple, who began dating in 2019, took the next step in their relationship with a stunning proposal in New York City. Dobrev shared her excitement on Instagram, posting, “RIP boyfriend, hello fiancé ????,” revealing her joy and new relationship status to her followers.
A Perfectly Planned Proposal with a Twist
White went all out to ensure Dobrev would be completely surprised, orchestrating an elaborate plan with his publicist to make the moment unforgettable. In an exclusive with Vogue, Dobrev shared how she received a formal invitation for what she believed was a CFDA/Vogue dinner with the legendary Anna Wintour. Little did she know, it was all part of White’s meticulous plan to catch her off guard.
Upon arriving at The Golden Swan in New York’s West Village, Dobrev was taken aback to see White waiting for her beneath an arch of white roses. White had a five-carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring ready, and the moment was perfectly intimate and touching. “I went into shock,” Dobrev recalled, describing how she froze in surprise. But soon after, White “said all the right things,” she added.
The couple celebrated the engagement in style, first with caviar and champagne, then indulging in Shake Shack and dumplings to complete the night.
A Journey from Friendship to Forever
The love story between Dobrev and White blossomed over the years. They initially met briefly at an awards show in 2012 but weren’t officially introduced until a 2019 event in Florida organized by motivational speaker Tony Robbins. Soon after, the pair became inseparable, moving in together early in the COVID-19 pandemic and even sharing a lighthearted Instagram moment where Dobrev gave White a quarantine haircut in May 2020.
White and Dobrev’s connection grew as they tackled DIY projects together and supported each other through major life events. From painting the exterior of Dobrev’s home to cheering each other on during career milestones, their relationship evolved into an enduring partnership. “Nina’s been my rock and my support through everything,” White shared in a past interview, underscoring how pivotal she was during his transition out of professional snowboarding following the 2022 Olympics.
Shaun White’s Many Attempts to Propose
White’s proposal journey wasn’t without its challenges. He initially planned to propose during their summer vacation, but Dobrev injured her knee and was on crutches. White even considered proposing in South Africa but feared she might catch on to his plan. Eventually, he landed on a perfect strategy that surprised her to the core.
As fans worldwide celebrate this exciting news, the couple has yet to announce any wedding plans. But with such a heartwarming proposal, Dobrev and White’s engagement story is already one for the ages.
