When Jonas contacted me about wanting to propose to his longtime girlfriend, Lilly, and needing a photographer to document it, I instantly knew I had to be there. The way he talked about her, the adorable nerves, and the excitement in his email brought me back to my own proposal so many years ago. There is something special about photographing such an enormous leap of faith, and I felt honored that Jonas trusted me with documenting the biggest question of his life.
Scouting out Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail in Wabasso
A couple of days before the proposal, Jonas and I thought it best to meet up at the location and scout it out. He decided to ask for Lilly's hand at Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail, a little path in Wabasso, a suburb at the north end of Vero Beach. As we walked to the exact spot Jonas had in mind, he told me about the significance of that park and how he and Lilly would come there on special occasions and anniversaries. Soon, it would become even more meaningful to this young couple.
The Big Day
Despite there being a wedding proposal on the agenda, the biggest unpredictability of this day was actually the weather. It was the peak of the summer rainy season and there were scattered showers scheduled for weeks. This morning was no different, but that wouldn't stop us. We decided the proposal should happen early enough to catch the beautiful morning light if it wasn't raining, but late enough that it wouldn't be too dark if there were storm clouds above. 8:00 am was the sweet spot and I was ready on site at 7:45, hiding behind a bush so as not to raise Lilly's suspicions. However, I definitely looked suspicious to other trail hikers.
The Moment
I heard them approaching and my heart started racing. I can only imagine Jonas'! I heard him say, "Hey, can you close your eyes for a second?" and I knew my time had come. I popped around the corner and captured the moment time stood still for this sweet couple. Jonas was on one knee and Lilly covered her face in disbelief as the realization of the situation struck her. Tears fell as she grabbed him and pulled him in for a hug. To be perfectly honest, I'm not even sure if he actually got to ask the question or if she even said the word yes, but the excitement between the two of them was unmistakable.
From Proposal to Engagement Shoot
After capturing all I needed to, I gave Jonas and Lilly a second to just be present in the moment. It was a lot to process, and jumping immediately into photos would have been chaotic, especially for Lilly, who was completely surprised. I walked out of earshot, but not eyesight as they hugged, cried, and talked. A few minutes later, the actual photoshoot was able to start and we were able to capture some of my favorite photos to date.
Lilly said yes, the weather held out, and we were able to capture a perfect morning for this amazing couple. Please enjoy the entire journey through the photos below.
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You made it to the end... thank you!
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