A Thoughtful Plan (and a Little Friendly Competition)

Lauren and Teresa had already been looking at rings and talking about proposing to each other, but Lauren decided she wanted to beat Teresa to it. She reached out to me as a Fairhope proposal photographer to capture the proposal and a few portraits afterward. Together we started planning something meaningful. With co-workers who have beautiful bay houses, the original idea was to propose on a pier overlooking Mobile Bay.

Windy Weather, Quick Decisions

If you live along the Eastern Shore, you know winter weather can change fast. This evening was so windy and getting colder by the minute. The windiest and coldest day we’ve had in a while! Lauren’s mom and dad met me at the pier before the couple arrived to help set up, but once we walked out there, it was clear the wind was just too much.

We pivoted quickly. The blanket, “Will You Marry Me?” sign, and pink roses were moved to a deck overlooking Mobile Bay, with the pier still behind us. The deck was wrapped in string lights, the sun was just about to set, and honestly, it ended up being even more perfect than the original plan.

The Best Cover Story

Teresa thought the evening was Lauren’s “wear white” winter work party. Lauren even made a full invitation with a phone number to RSVP to. When they arrived and walked out onto the deck, the surprise completely landed. Teresa said she had a feeling this might be it. I photographed the proposal while also recording video on my iPhone so they could relive the moment in motion.

A Yes, a Sunset, and Sweet Portraits

They are so incredibly sweet together. After Teresa said yes, we took portraits as the sky turned orange over Mobile Bay. The ring was stunning, a thick gold band with an east-west oval diamond that suited Teresa perfectly. The temperature kept dropping, the light faded quickly, and we wrapped up just as it was getting dark.

Celebrating at The Grand Hotel

After the proposal and portraits, Lauren and Teresa met Lauren’s parents back at The Grand for a dinner reservation to celebrate. It was such a joyful way to end the evening and the perfect start to their next chapter together.

A Busy Week of Proposals

This was the third proposal I photographed this week, and moments like this never get old. Each one is unique, emotional, and such an honor to document. (More of these blogs coming soon!)

If you are planning a proposal and looking for a Fairhope proposal photographer who can help you pivot when the weather changes and still create something beautiful, I would love to be part of your story.