1.) PICK A LOCATION & THE VIBE
The first step for any proposal is to choose your location. I suggest choosing a place that plays a part in your journey, somewhere meaningful to you two. If you can’t figure out a spot, I always suggest a gorgeous backdrop with privacy, like a rooftop, or a picnic at your fav park in the city. Now, be sure to gauge if your partner would want an audience or not. Some people would love seeing family & friends present, but others might enjoy a private moment. Be sure to know your partners vibe prior! Choosing your location can actually be a perfect date opportunity + also a way to keep your proposal plans on hush hush. Now don’t go giving away any hints by asking her questions, this is your plan! I know this is a huge deal for the both of you but try your best to keep it cool! Proposals become a little sweeter when they are a complete surprise.
2.) CONTACT PHOTOGRAPHER AND PLAN A DATE
Assuming your partner wants this moment captured you’re going to want to contact a photographer as early as you begin planning. Once you set your date, ask the photographer the best time for photos at this location. Planning for sunset or right before sunset is always a safe bet for lighting purposes.
3.) PROPOSE
Be sure your photographer arrives at LEAST 30 minutes ahead of your arrival time to get into a good hiding spot. On your way to the location it’s best to share your phone location with the them so they can track your literal whereabouts. Makes things a lot less stressful for the photographer.
Once you arrive, send a little heads up text if you can, then propose!
Communicating all your plans ahead of time with your photographer and trusting them is key for a successful proposal.
Elise & Spencer’s Proposal Story
I first photographed Elise & Spencer a couple years ago as a fun couples shoot. I knew they had been dating awhile and have continued to follow their journey together on social media since then. One day I received an inquiry and as soon as I saw his email and the words “surprise proposal” I truly got emotional. Truth is, Elise and I are from the same town. It just hits different when you receive an inquiry from someone you know, better yet a proposal. This one hit close to the heart.
If you know Elise you know she’s the most deserving of love, of joy, of the ultimate happiness. She’s, cool, she’s sweet as a peach, she’s charming, and she’s a lil goofy. Spencer’s dream gal, I mean you can see it, you can feeeeeel it! Take a look for yourself.
Clear Skies, Small Town, and a Waterfront Proposal
I drove up to Urbanna, Virginia early that morning to beat my couple there and get a good hiding spot. It was mid 70s, sunny, clear skies, on Urbanna waterfront, the boats docked. I mean nothing could have been more perfect. Spencer had been working with Emily Warden Designs for months to create the perfect custom engagement ring for Elise, and DAMN they nailed it!
The proposal was a success + we surprised her by having me capture the entire thing. I took the opportunity to take some photos of the newly engaged couple after the he sealed the deal.
Stay tuned for their WEDDING September 2023. Just one spoiler, I’ll be there. 😉
