Super cute proposal idea for outdoorsy couples!

Proposal

Jun 6

I love engagement proposals. I really do. So when Tanner reached out to me about proposing to his girlfriend of 7 years at Graver Arboretum, I dropped everything and hopped on a call with him! Although I photograph all kinds of couples and love stories, most often it’s guys who reach out to me to capture their surprise proposal. And usually, they have a general vision, but need some help nailing down the details and logistics! That’s why all proposal packages include personalized planning assistance. Over the course of 2-3 weeks, Tanner and I connected a number of times as his plan evolved and changed. He knew he wanted to proposal at the Arboretum. This gorgeous location held so much sentimental value for the couple. So that was a must! Tanner planned to meet at the couple’s family home down the street for an engagement party after the proposal, so we scheduled our session the late morning under the trees (for the best lighting). We had his mom and her mom involved. We had Woodstone Country Club on hold as a rain back up, and we had devised an entire story to convince Jean that she was meeting me and her mom for a family photoshoot!

I met Jean and her mom in the parking lot. As we approached the location where Tanner was hiding surrounded by rose petals, Jean’s mom went back to the parking lot to meet up with Jean’s family (or at least that’s what we told her). I said to Jean “well, let’s just walk some more and test the lighting.” As we approached the spot, I asked her what her favorite part of the park was. She told me about a beautiful pond hidden in the woods that her and her boyfriend love to visit. She looked to her left, “it’s this way.” As she turned onto the path, she was greeted with red rose petals leading the way. “That’s weird,” I said. We looked down the path and saw Tanner waiting at the end of the trail of petals. “Do you know that guy?” I asked her. Shocked and excited, she exclaimed, “YES! OMG. yes!!”

Every proposal is different. Usually, my clients will ask me to stay hidden and capture the moment from afar before revealing myself to their partner. Tanner wanted to make sure that Jean was dressed in her best for photos. That’s why we decided to tell her that she was meeting me for a family photo session. As far as she knew, Tanner was at work and wouldn’t be home until late that night.

Her reaction, when she realized what was actually happening, was adorable. I’m so thrilled that Tanner asked me to capture his surprise engagement proposal to Jean! Witnessing the moment unfold and capturing their goofy and sweet connection was truly the highlight of my week!! It's obvious that they are a perfect match. Thank you Tanner & Jean for trusting me to capture this life-changing moment in your story.

When planning his surprise proposal, Tanner decided to book the 30 minute portrait package. This includes the proposal and a 30 minute portrait session afterwards. I also offer a 15 minute portrait package (for folks who just want a few photos to remember the moment), and an hour portrait package for couples. The hour package is great for couples who have been together a long time and want to have their engagement session done right away. It’s also a good option for anyone with a more elaborate proposal plan. For example, maybe you want to propose to your partner at the beach. So we capture the proposal on the beach, followed by a few portraits by the ocean, then we head up to the boardwalk for ice cream and arcade games! After capturing proposals for some time now, I’ve realized that every couple is different, so every surprise proposal is totally unique! There’s really not a one size fits all in this case, so I offer something for everyone.