Joris planned his surprise proposal to Emily on the weekend they were set to come here- I was delighted to have squeaked in as their local Big Sur proposal photographer! Joris is also a fellow Philly and he works as a professor, whereas Emily is from San Francisco and does marketting in biotech. I loved getting to photograph these two, they are just the sweetest and have the most adorable height difference ever!

How Their Love Story Started

“I went to high school with her cousin who introduced us despite the fact that we’re located across the country. We both flew to Chicago for our first date. Because of COVID, we’re together in SF for a while. The two of us love the ocean and romantic hikes and walks so I planned this weekend getaway to Big Sur a while ago, and it lined up perfectly for our engagement plans. Emily is incredibly caring and sweet. Totally selfless, very driven, and intelligent. I’ve known for a while that she was the one! Having the opportunity to live together during COVID was a great for us to make sure we were compatible in every way. The last few months together (all day, every day) have been incredible!” – Joris

Surprise Serendipity Pre-Proposal

A funny story: I was driving down to Big Sur and there was an accident on the road. Pro tip from your local Big Sur photographer: leave early! I always make sure to assess the situation (aka TRAFFIC) and prepare accordingly so I can give my best to my couples. Anyway, I get there (keep in mind that I haven’t met them irl yet!), and I actually parked right behind them! Talk about serendipity! I made eye contact with Joris and we both just knew. So I ended up following after them and it was a nice change of pace, not to mention it made everything that much more organic!

Proposal Day Plans

The weekend of Joris and Emily’s Big Sur surprise proposal was a busy one, but of course, love finds a way! Joris’ plan for this special day was a romantic sunset walk before dinner at L’aubergine in Carmel. I come in to photograph them on the coastline, a west coast specialty! In addition, I also captured their lovely day on film (an AGS specialty)! Photographing in film gives a truly romantic look and feel to photos, and I love being able to do that for my couples.

It was so heartwarming capturing their Big Sur surprise proposal, a lot of people were clapping for them too! Happiness spreads easily to everyone during lovely occasions like this. Getting close ups of Emily’s beautiful ring made for some really epic shots. Such a pretty classic style!

Thank you for the privilege of letting me be your local Big Sur surprise proposal photographer, Joris and Emily! Your cross-country love story is my everything, and it’s why I’m so grateful to you two letting me capture it on film!

Are you in need of a local Big Sur photographer for your upcoming special occasion? Proposals, anniversaries, elopements, and more- I’m your gal! Reach out to me here!