When it comes to getting hitched, everyone seems to put infinite emphasis on the “big day.” But before the oft-complicated wedding planning process begins, the most romantic and long-lasting memories are usually made during the proposal, where the entire journey to the alter began. Get ready to “awww” because we rounded up a few gushy proposal pics and stories that engagement photographers shared with us. They may make you a bit teary (admit it) and help you relive your own special “I Do” moment.
Lacey and Taylor
Photography by Fowler Studios
"The house was full of excitement when we arrived. Taylor was putting the finishing touches on everything, his sister was arranging rose petals down the walkway and Lacey’s mom was keeping track of where everyone was and when Lacey would arrive. Lacey’s family decided to go sit on the dock and enjoy the gorgeous weather, and when she saw the rose petals, she knew. Okay, well maybe she saw me hiding in the shadows behind a boat, too …
Taylor didn’t waste any time asking her to marry him. And, of course, she quickly said yes.
You know what’s awesome? She didn’t even know he was in town. They live in Tennessee, and she was up here in Virginia for the week visiting her family and friends. But the surprises didn’t end there. Once they got back to the house, family and friends were waiting to congratulate them. And Taylor didn’t know it, but his parents had just gotten off a plane from Tennessee as well. It was really awesome to see both families celebrating together.”
Ricardo and Selene
Photography by Daissy Torres Photography
“After months of planning and 10 years of love, Ricardo’s proposal was met with cloudy skies, rain and thunder. Thankfully, by the time Selene arrived, the sky was calm, which was a contrast to Ricardo’s nerves.
With a large bouquet of flowers placed by the fountain at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Ricardo hid patiently until Selene noticed the flowers and read his love note. As she approached and started reading, Ricardo quickly and without murmuring a word, hugged her and proposed. Her shock was visible as she smiled at her family that was present and stared in surprise at Ricardo.”
Nick and Morgan
Photography by Dragon Studio
“Nick planned an incredible proposal for Morgan. He threw a get-together as a surprise birthday party. Her birthday was the Friday before the proposal, and everyone made other plans specifically so that there weren’t plans for her birthday (on purpose!).
When they arrived at her family’s house, all of her friends and family were waiting in the backyard with sparklers in a semi-circle, ready for Nick to take Morgan’s hand in the middle and ask her to be his wife. He even had the ring custom made by his uncle, who owns the shop Gatchalian Jewelry. It was a great surprise and the best birthday present ever.”
Lee and Des
Photography by EyeCaptures Photography
“When Lee asked me to photograph his proposal to Des, I was over the moon. I’ve had the pleasure of growing up across the street from Lee and his family, and I used to babysit him on occasion. Both Lee and Des' mothers had a hand in making the magic happen.
In a backyard in Sandbridge, they turned a boring gazebo into the perfect proposal oasis. I, on the other hand, was hidden behind a shed and behind some bushes next to a mosquito-infested canal, but all the bites in the world were worth capturing the moment Des said I do!”
Melissa M. Stewart
Melissa M. Stewart was the former editor of Savor Virginia and Coastal Virginia Magazine. After she got her first story published in the second-grade school newsletter, she has since been an avid writer and word nerd for 20 years. She has served as production editor for AmeriForce Media and marketing communications manager for Volvo Penta. When she is not working, Melissa spends her time in Virginia Beach keeping up with her two spunky daughters, planning beach days, creating craft cocktails with garden ingredients and running to make up for all the wonderful food she discovers around Virginia.
