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A Sunset Proposal in Big Sur | Ron & Anna

Ron and Anna sharing a quiet moment on the cliffs surrounded by wildflowers above the ocean in Big Sur.

Big Sur sunset proposal moments have a way of making time slow down. Along the coastline, the air feels softer, the ocean stretches endlessly, and everything becomes quiet enough to truly feel what matters. It is the kind of place that makes a moment feel permanent, and it was the perfect setting for Ron to ask the biggest question of his life.

Wide landscape photo capturing Ron proposing to Anna with the Big Sur coastline behind them.
Ron and Anna sharing a joyful moment after getting engaged in Big Sur

Ron and Anna’s story began back during their freshman year of college in the dorm they both called home. Anna was part of a friend group that would often hang out in the common area near Ron’s room. Over winter break, Ron joined in and that is when sparks flew. They immediately hit it off and spent so much time together. Before long, it felt natural and inevitable. They officially started dating on March 5th, 2016.

From freshman year to forever

Big Sur wildflowers and coastline in the background during Ron and Anna's engagement photos

When Ron talks about Anna, what comes through most is certainty. He describes her as someone who makes him feel truly seen. Anna is such a fantastic listener, and Ron shared that she makes him feel heard and understood every time they are together. She genuinely cares about what he has to share, and there is not another person in the world he can imagine going through life with. He says she has completed him, and that even the craziness of the years since 2020 has felt like a wonderful journey because she has been beside him through it all.

Ron and Anna sharing a champagne toast and kiss after their Big Sur sunset proposal.

But their love is not only made up of the big moments. It is made up of laughter, daily life, and the playful energy that makes their relationship feel light. Ron says one of the things that makes him laugh most about Anna is her competitive streak. He calls her the ultimate competitor. No matter how small the game or activity, she gives it her absolute all, even when it is over the tiniest of things. Ron admits he is competitive too, so together, card games and board games become their own kind of entertainment. You can only imagine what it is like to watch them both trying to win, laughing the whole time.

Romantic portrait of Ron and Anna in Big Sur at golden hour

When he knew she was the one

Ron says he truly knew Anna was the one during their first trip to his hometown of El Paso, Texas. He had thought about it before, but seeing her interact with his family back home and experiencing his city together brought everything into focus. That trip finalized it for him. It was not just a feeling. It was knowing. She fit naturally into every part of his world, and from that point on, the future felt clear.

Ron and Anna walking hand in hand along a coastal path in Big Sur.

The decision to propose

For Ron, the timing mattered, not because of a date on the calendar, but because he wanted Anna to feel completely ready. In her early twenties, she sometimes felt she might be too young for a commitment like engagement. Over time, that feeling passed. In the past few months, they even went ring shopping together, stepping into the next season with intention and excitement.

Engaged couple laughing together while walking on a Big Sur coastal trail.

Ron’s love language is acts of service. If he had to choose one, he says it would be that. He shows love in the everyday ways. Making tea, cleaning up the house, doing laundry, and taking care of the small things that make Anna’s life easier and more enjoyable. It is the kind of love that shows up consistently, quiet, steady, and deeply meaningful.

Over view shot of engagement ring on Anna’s hand during a Big Sur proposal photo shoot.

Big Sur Sunset Proposal on the California Coastline

Ron knew the proposal had to happen somewhere meaningful, and Anna absolutely loves California’s coastline. Big Sur was not only beautiful. It carried history for them. They visited the area about five years ago, and it was in that moment that they both decided California was where they wanted to live together long term. That memory stayed with Ron. It influenced his decision to return and propose here, in the place where their forever first felt real.

Couple kissing on a Big Sur trail surrounded by wildflowers during their proposal.

They had talked about Painter’s Point on the phone, but Ron was open to any spot around that area, especially somewhere quieter and less crowded. Anna also loves wildflowers, and while they were not a necessity, it would be a perfect bonus to have them in bloom during the moment.

Anna leaning into Ron with soft sunset light in Big Sur.

A Big Sur Sunset Proposal Filled with Meaning

Ron envisioned the proposal happening around sunset, maybe a bit earlier, when the light turns soft and golden and the coastline feels like it is glowing. They were not getting into the area until the early afternoon, so morning was not likely unless the proposal happened another day. Still, Ron was flexible. The timing was never the point. The feeling was.

Ron and Anna celebrating their engagement and sharing a kiss on the California coastline in Big Sur.
Anna looking at Ron with ocean views behind them on the Big Sur coastline photographed in black and white.

Anna knew about the ring already, and since this was part of a surprise birthday trip, it made sense that it could happen. Ron hoped the moment itself might still be a surprise. Even if she expected it somewhat, he knew she would be so happy to be getting engaged in a beautiful place. He did not expect her to cry or be completely caught off guard. He simply expected joy. A moment of deep happiness and certainty, in one of the most stunning places in California.

Anna hugging Ron tightly after saying yes during their Big Sur proposal session.

A Timeless Detail

Ron proposed with a solitaire antique diamond ring, a piece that feels classic in every way. Simple, meaningful, and timeless, it was the perfect reflection of their story. When Anna held out her hand, Ron said it looked absolutely perfect, as if it had always belonged to her.

Close up of antique solitaire engagement ring resting on yellow wildflowers.

Big Sur Sunset Proposal Weekend Itinerary

This Big Sur sunset proposal was part of a weekend designed to feel like a celebration from beginning to end. On Saturday, June 24th, they drove into the area and stopped by sights along the way. That night was the proposal and a special dinner to celebrate. On Sunday, they went hiking in the area near the redwoods, followed by dinner at Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn. On Monday, they headed to Monterey to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, ending the trip with dinner at Casanova.

It was the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and quiet moments together. A weekend that felt intentional, meaningful, and full of memories they will carry for the rest of their lives.

Panoramic view of Ron proposing to Anna during their Big Sur sunset proposal on the California coastline.
Proposal in action at a Big Sur coastal overlook with Ron asking Anna to marry him.

Capturing the beginning of everything

Ron did not have one specific vision in mind. He simply wanted to ensure they captured this beautiful moment as best as possible. There is something special about images that become part of your story. The beginning of a family legacy. The kind of photographs you will look back on years from now and remember exactly how it felt.

Ron proposing to Anna with ocean cliffs behind them in Big Sur at sunset.
Anna reacting with joy as Ron proposes during their Big Sur sunset proposal.
Anna and Ron smiling while walking through wildflowers during Big Sur engagement session

If you are planning your own Big Sur sunset proposal and want it captured in a way that feels elevated, intentional, and timeless, we would love to help you preserve the moment. Contact us here today!

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