The ninth season of The Bachelorette premiered on May 27, 2013. This season features 27-year-old Desiree Hartsock, a bridal stylist from Northglenn, Colorado. Hartsock was sent home by Sean Lowe after the hometown dates episode, on the 17th season of The Bachelor.
Hoping to find true love with eligible bachelors vying for her affections, Desiree gets a chance to meet her men at the first cocktail party of the season, during which Nick R. sets off a commotion, worrying everyone else about their chances.
Desiree and Brooks share a one-on-one date that begins at a bridal shop; Andy Grammer performs; the bachelors star in a music video for Soulja Boy; Bryden and Desiree take a road trip; Desiree sends three men home.
Desiree and the remaining men play a game of dodgeball; Kate Earl serenades Desiree and a man; individual dates with the guys.
In Iconic Atlantic City, there is a hot competition between the men and a touching surprise for a married couple dramatically affected by Superstorm Sandy. Darius Rucker performs.
Desiree visits Europe for the first time, beginning in Munich, and a dramatic two-on-one date pits two bitter rivals against each other. Rock and pop star Matt White performs.
Desiree and the eight remaining men fly to the cultural and romantic hotspot of Barcelona. But despite futbol and fun, the trip is clouded with mystery and mistrust.
The five remaining bachelors sail to Madeira Island, Portugal, with Desiree, who enjoys one-on-one dates that include a picnic, dinner on a deserted island and a toboggan ride. Also: A two-on-one date involves go-kart racing. The Final Four contenders are revealed after the rose ceremony.
Desiree visits the Top 4 contenders' hometowns. One suitor treats her to a snow-cone-truck adventure; another shows his devotion to his family; a third bachelor takes her out for a day of baseball; and another considers his mother's advice about Desiree. Three suitors remain after the rose ceremony.
Desiree and several of her suitors reflect on the season. Included: footage of the cast crashing fans' viewer parties; advice from former Bachelorettes on dealing with troublesome guys; viewer questions; bloopers; and a sneak peek at the finale. Also: Desiree faces one of the men she rejected; the bachelors confront some of their controversial competitors.
The final three bachelors visit the Caribbean island of Antigua with Desiree, who takes a romantic road trip along the coastline with one suitor and goes on a private helicopter ride with another.
Desiree meets with her two remaining suitors and makes her decision in the Season 9 conclusion.
Desiree recaps the season in a live interview with host Chris Harrison. She then reunites with her three finalists, who give their take on the outcome of the show.