Surprise On-Air Assignment Turns Into Romantic Winter Proposal for KCCI Reporter
KCCI reporter Pepper Purpura thought she was heading out on a routine assignment when she arrived at the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden in downtown Des Moines — but the “story” she was sent to cover turned out to be her own proposal.
With help from the KCCI team, Purpura’s partner, Kai, carefully orchestrated the moment, coordinating with the station for weeks to make sure everything went perfectly when it was time to ask the big question.
“Our own Pepper Purpura is engaged! And we got the proposal on camera,” KCCI news anchor Ben Kaplan announced on air.
Because the special moment was disguised as work, it felt completely natural that cameras were set up around the park. KCCI photojournalist Mike Simmons already had his camera rolling when Kai appeared and surprised Purpura.
In the emotional footage, the couple stands in the snow-covered garden as Kai drops to one knee and asks Purpura to marry him. Her initial shock quickly gives way to a huge smile as she says yes, and the two share a long, tearful hug.
“Everyone involved was excited to play a part, and I’m so glad that it all worked out,” said KCCI executive producer Tisa Tollenaar. “And, of course, that she said yes.”
The station also highlighted Purpura’s unique engagement ring: a non-traditional black marquise-cut gemstone, accented with tiny white stones along a gold band.
“And Pepper is like the sweetest, kindest person, and so good on Kai for making a proposal worthy of a girl like Pepper!” Kaplan added during the broadcast. “So, really happy for you guys — Kai, welcome to the KCCI family!”
