From Road Trip to Ring: An Underwater Proposal in America’s Best Aquarium

Published January 14, 2026

When Michigan natives David Balasa and Haley Wiewiora embarked on a cross-country road trip through the Midwest, David had an unforgettable destination in mind. 
 
The couple, together for two years, set out on the journey as part of a Christmas gift David planned for Haley: a small “bucket list” trip designed just for them. Their itinerary included several novelty stops along the Midwest, including Ford’s Garage, Buc-ee’s, the Astra Lumina display at Anakeesta, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tenn. The final stop was America’s Best Aquarium — Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri, located minutes from historic Route 66. 
 
But David had a larger goal in mind. 
 
“I have known since the first summer with her that I wanted to propose underwater,” David said. Haley, a long-time lifeguard and manager of a swimming school, has spent her life in the water. She grew up swimming and now teaches others to do the same. 
 
After learning Wonders of Wildlife had been named “America’s Best Aquarium” for a seventh time by USA Today readers, David knew it was the perfect setting. Wanting to incorporate Haley’s deep love of the water, he contacted the Wonders of Wildlife team about an idea that had never been done before: an underwater proposal during the Midwest’s only shark diving experience, the Out to Sea SeaTrek Shark Dive. 
 
After coordinating details with the Wonders of Wildlife team, David felt confident in his decision. The couple arrived at their final destination on Dec. 15, 2025, toured the aquarium, and then David prepared for the moment. Once submerged and underway in the shark dive, David pulled out a ring box — holding a temporary shark tooth in place of the actual ring — and asked Haley to marry him. 

“I was nervous but confident,” David said. “Wonders of Wildlife helped everything go off without a hitch, and I knew she would say yes.” 
 
The surprises didn’t end there. David had secretly arranged for Haley’s family to drive 10 hours from Michigan to Springfield so they could witness and celebrate the proposal from the exhibit’s viewing area. 
 
“Being underwater, where family and friends could watch from outside the tank, allowed the proposal to be as special and unique as she is,” David said. 
 
When asked whether Haley suspected a proposal, David said she initially did. 
 
“I had been wondering for months when this man was going to propose,” Haley said. “He kept saying it would happen when the moment was right. I had no idea what he meant — he even told me this trip was not a proposal trip. This proposal was not only unique, but it showed me how deeply he sees and understands me. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner to share life with.” 

“It was the happiest moment of my life,” David added. “Nothing less than a proposal with sharks would have been worthy of her.” 
 
Beyond the proposal, the couple cited favorite exhibits at Wonders of Wildlife, including the jellyfish, arapaima, and the entire Sea of Lights Enchanted Christmas experience. 
 
“I can’t express how amazing the entire staff was,” David said. “Haley’s family also commented on how impressed they were.” 
 
“The photos turned out amazing, and every memory will be treasured,” Haley added. “Thank you so much for all the support Wonders of Wildlife gave us to make this happen.” 

On behalf of the entire Wonders of Wildlife team, congratulations to Haley and David on a FINtastic proposal! 
 
If you are interested in planning a special moment or private event at Wonders of Wildlife, please contact [email protected] or 417-496-0435 for more information.