I first met Jenna and Drew at a styled shoot in partnership with ACE Weddings and Events in Charlotte, NC. Amanda, the owner and executive planner at ACE, was in a sorority with Jenna, and she suggested Jenna and Drew model for our shoot (they were just dating at the time). We made an instant connection, and they were a blast to work with. I loved everything about that shoot and the way they photographed so easily together.
Capture the Moment | Best Proposal Ideas
Even then, it was pretty obvious that these two had an in-it-for-the-long-haul kind of relationship. So, when Drew reached back out to me to document his surprise proposal, I was ecstatic!
Drew had the idea of heading back out to Cedar Creek Ranch for another “styled shoot,” which would actually be his proposal. The idea was perfect because Jenna would have her clothes picked out, plus hair, nails, and makeup done. He knew she’d want flawless photos, so this was a great way to do it without her suspecting anything. And he was right. She had no idea! She came totally prepared to model for a photoshoot.
However, we did run into an unexpected hiccup: Just before the shoot/proposal, a school bus ran over Drew’s foot while he was on a run! (What?!) I thought he was kidding at first, but sure enough, he had the boot and all. Amazingly, he didn’t let the accident get in the way of an epic proposal. He sucked it up and wore shoes for her!
To keep the ruse going, we began with a few staged poses for the “styled shoot.” Then, I gave him the signal. He delivered his sweet and romantic speech beautifully! Needless to say, she was blown away and responded with a wholehearted, “Yes!”
Their wedding is planned for next fall, and there’s no doubt their big day will be a dream. These two have never met a stranger, and they’re loved by all. Congratulations, Jenna and Drew!
Dreamy Proposal Ideas that Will Guarantee Memories
Hoping for a proposal as dreamy as Drew’s? Whether you’re the one proposing or just hoping to drop a few hints (😉 😉), I’ve got a few proposal ideas up my sleeve—and they all photograph beautifully:
7 Romantic Proposal Ideas
1. Rooftop Proposal
Charlotte has a couple rooftops with amazing views. Get in touch to learn more.
2. Downtown Date Night Proposal
Dress up and head downtown (or uptown), and surprise your honey. We can pre-select a great backdrop for you to stop and get down on one knee.
3. Propose Where You Met or Had Your First Date
Hoping for happy tears? This will do it!
4. “Will You Marry Me?” Custom Etched Wine Bottle
Check out Mano’s! Pack a picnic for the park, and take out a personalized bottle of wine and glasses for the proposal.
5. Nostalgic Scavenger Hunt
Write sweet notes and share photographs to guide your sweetie down memory lane. Then, pop the question at the end.
6. Propose on a Hike
The Blue Ridge Mountains paint a beautiful proposal backdrop! Take a scenic drive across Blue Ridge Parkway and pick your favorite spot to get out, explore–and propose.
7. Propose at a Family Dinner, Gathering, or Event
If you want to celebrate with friends and family, having them there for the proposal will make it extra memorable. Just make sure to get everyone on board first to avoid overshadowing someone else’s big day (such as an anniversary celebration).
Need More Proposal Ideas?
Get in touch with me here for more proposal ideas. I’d love to help you document your love story from proposal to happily ever after!
