MANSFIELD, Ohio — An Ashland couple's stay in the Goodyear Blimp was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that changed their relationship forever.
It's where Steve Zigmund proposed to his girlfriend of 3 years, Stephanie Finley.
"I said, 'Yes! A million times, yes!'" Finley recalled, beaming, as the couple spoke to 3News at Phoenix Brewing Company in Mansfield. Zigmund is a co-owner of the brew house.
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Earlier this month, Finley heard about the special Goodyear Blimp listing on AirBnB: An overnight stay inside the iconic airship's gondola for $150. The listing was called, "A Touchdown Stay in the Goodyear Blimp" in honor of the airship's induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, and for college football's 150th anniversary. Goodyear is donating $5,000 to the Cotton Bowl Foundation as part of the promotion as well. The Akron-based tire maker also sponsors the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.
"I sent a screen shot [to Zigmund] and I said, 'Look at this!" said Finley. Both described themselves as adventure-seekers, so both wanted to jump at the chance for the unique opportunity.
After some luck and good timing, Zigmund secured one of only three reservations. "And then I headed to the jewelry store," he recalled, thinking that this would be the perfect opportunity to propose to Finley.
The seats were removed from the Wingfoot One's gondola, and the interior was transformed into a surprisingly cozy spot -- small, but cozy, with many creature comforts like a couch with a pull-out bed, and home furnishings.
The overnight stay also included access to the blimp's hangar, which measures two-and-a-half football fields, a portion of which, was set up like a football lounge. There was also a lakefront spot with a grill and a firepit, and tickets to this weekend's Ohio State football game, where the Wingfoot One will soar above.
As the couple was relaxing in bed Wednesday morning, Zigmund made his move.
"I didn't get down on one knee. We were just laying in bed, cuddled up next to her," he recalled. "I don't know where he had the ring -- I was not expecting it at all!" Finley said with a smile.
It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with a partner for a lifetime.
"Best day ever!" she exclaimed.