I’m so excited to share a morning Grand Hotel proposal on the very same day it happened! Jackson proposed to Shaylin this morning at The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama, and somehow managed to keep the entire thing a complete surprise.

One of my favorite parts of photographing proposals is getting to be in on the secret. Jackson and I planned everything ahead of time, from the location he would propose to when and where I would be waiting with my cameras. And because my proposal sessions include 24-hour sneak peeks, I couldn’t wait to get home, edit a few favorites, and share their story while the excitement was still fresh!

Planning a Surprise Grand Hotel Proposal

Jackson did an impressive job keeping Shaylin from suspecting anything. He had already purchased her ring, but continued shopping at jewelry stores with her afterward so she had absolutely no idea he was getting ready to propose.

We decided on Julep Point at the Grand Hotel for the proposal. In the morning, it looks beautiful with Mobile Bay behind them. We had been watching the weather all week, and thankfully, we ended up with a beautiful morning in Point Clear.

Jackson and Shaylin had reservations for the Grand Hotel’s Jazz Brunch later that morning, so their plan was to spend a little time walking around the property beforehand. It gave Jackson the perfect reason to lead Shaylin toward Julep Point without making her suspicious.

Jackson let me know they were staying in the North Bay House and sent me a few photos of the two of them beforehand. That way, I would recognize them as soon as they walked over from their room.

I arrived early, found my spot, and waited with my cameras ready. So as not to seem like a total creeper hanging out with dual cameras and a zoom lens, I grabbed a few photos of the wildlife around the hotel.

She Had No Idea

As Shaylin and Jackson approached Julep Point, there was one moment when Shaylin looked back over her shoulder in my direction. For a second, I thought she had spotted me and figured out what was happening!

Thankfully, the secret was still safe.

Jackson subtly checked to make sure I was ready before getting down on one knee. Shaylin was completely shocked, which made her reaction so much fun to photograph. That’s when she looked at me and the gig was up! Haha.

And then there was the ring!

Jackson proposed with Shaylin’s dream ring tucked inside a ring box featuring a cat that somehow looked like the perfect combination of their own cats. It was such a personal and sweet little detail to an already exciting morning.

Engagement Portraits Around the Grand Hotel

After the proposal, we spent some time walking around the Grand Hotel for a few newly engaged portraits. Jackson had told me ahead of time that Shaylin would love anything involving nature, so we looked for some of the beautiful green spaces around the resort.

The Grand Hotel is one of my favorite places for proposals because there are so many different portrait locations within a short walk. The bay, huge oak trees, landscaping, and greenery give us plenty of variety without taking away from the moment itself.

Most importantly, Shaylin and Jackson got a little time to soak in the fact that they were officially engaged before heading off to celebrate over Jazz Brunch!

Planning a Grand Hotel Proposal in Point Clear, Alabama?

If you’re planning a surprise proposal at the Grand Hotel, I’m always happy to help with the details before the session. We can choose a location, talk through timing and lighting, and make a plan for exactly where I’ll be so your partner doesn’t suspect a thing.

Proposal sessions with Photography by Toni also include sneak peeks within 24 hours, because when you’ve just gotten engaged, you shouldn’t have to wait long to share the news!

Congratulations, Shaylin and Jackson! What a beautiful morning for the beginning of this next chapter.