Typically when people imagine Big Sur, they think about the beautiful California Coast stretching next to the sea. Little do they know that that is only one part of Big Sur. I was so excited when Alex reached out and wanted me to be his surprise proposal photographer for his Big Sur proposal in the redwoods at Glen Oaks.

Planning the Proposal

I remember the day Alex contacted me about photographing a proposal in Big Sur. Originally from Los Angeles, they planned a trip to Northern California. Not familiar with the area, he requested help planning the engagement.

“I’m so nervous!” he admitted to me. He had an idea of what he wanted to do but was not sure exactly where. He wasn’t super familiar with the trails and was nervous about making sure it was a surprise. As he told me all of his concerns, I helped him narrow down when and where we were going to do the proposal, and then planned on doing all I could to help ease his anxiety. That’s one of the most important things you do for your couples as a surprise proposal photographer!

Going the Extra Mile

As his surprise proposal photographer, I drove an hour away to Glen Oaks and filmed instructions for him: I helped him navigate where to park, which trail to walk on, and the exact trail spot of where he would drop down and propose. I sent this to him while he was in LA, and he felt so relieved. We strategically planned each detail so that everyone felt prepared!

It’s so important to me as a surprise proposal photographer that my couples are able to focus on their special moment and not all the details. For Alex, that meant really focusing on his proposal. I didn’t want him concerned if he had made the wrong turn or if I wasn’t watching. I wanted him to have full confidence that I was there, capturing their adventure, and photographing an important moment in their life. The photos were also a variety: digital, film, and even a short video! Trust between clients and photographers are of utmost importance; if I can go an extra mile for couples, I will!

Bir Sur Redwoods Proposal Story

When the day of the Big Sur proposal came, I hid behind the bushes. The light was coming through the trees perfectly. Alex was SO shocked when it happened; they both were brimming with joy.

It was as if the forest came awake when they had their moment. The wind rustled the trees and there was something magical in the air. Typically, since Glen Oaks is a popular hiking spot, there are often people talking and it can be loud in the forest, but on that day, and in that moment, the forest was quietly alive and present for them.

Guys: are you getting ready for a proposal? I will go the extra mile as your surprise proposal photographer to make sure it’s perfect! Let’s talk!