When Zach contacted me about capturing his proposal to his girlfriend of over six years, I was legitimately thrilled! Surprise proposals seriously set my heart a flutter. Zach had the date in mind, May 20, but was open to suggestions about where the proposal should take place. We considered Duke Gardens, but found out there was a large event taking place the same evening, so Zach wanted something more private.
I suggested Raulston Arboretum; you know by now that I adore Raulston. Not only did Jakub and I take our engagement pictures here, but we also had our magical garden party reception on one of the lawns.
Zach drove down with his mom from Connecticut the day before the proposal. I met them at Raulston and showed them a spot I thought was perfect, and they agreed. The location & date was set! Gabi didn’t know that Zach was in town, so even seeing him was going to be a surprise. Zach was texting with her family to get updates; her family, who were also visiting from Boston, told her they wanted to go to the garden to look at perhaps getting a “brick” in honor of her grandma.
Once Gabi entered the garden, she didn’t even see Zach until he said her nickname. She was shocked to see him! She ran to give him a hug and then after a few sweet words, Zach got down on one knee to ask Gabi “will you marry me?” Gabi, of course, said an excited yes!! Her engagement ring was Zach’s grandma’s engagement ring. Zach’s grandma has since passed, but did meet Gabi and loved her. I think it’s so sweet that she has an heirloom engagement ring. Post-proposal, Gabi was shocked to see her sister, who flew in for the proposal and was supposed to be in Disneyland, and then Zach’s mom as well! Lots of hugs were shared and then we snuck off for a few minutes to get a couple of just engaged portraits of Gabi and Zach.
Wasn’t this the absolute sweetest surprise? I love that Zach reached out, so that they have photos of this occasion. If you’re considering proposing to your sweetheart, I would love to chat about your plans! Please reach out today, and I’ll get back in touch shortly about how I can best capture the proposal.