First off, I LOVE photographing proposals :).

Matthew was planning on taking Dede on a surprise weekend getaway for their one year anniversary.  Dede knew they were going someplace but she didn’t know where and certainly didn’t know Matthew was planning on proposing. The two had talked about getting married and had even looked at rings but Dede thought that proposing this weekend would be too predictable.  She was wrong.  The first night they arrived at the Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond, Matthew told her they were going out for a nice dinner.  Before dinner he told her that he wanted to walk around the Inn’s beautiful garden grounds to take some photos of the two of them.  Matthew loves taking photos so for him to request this was not a surprise to Dede.  Little did she know, Matthew was hiding the ring inside of his camera case. They did have photos taken of the two of them but not by Matthew and not for the reason Dede was thinking.

As they walked out to take photos, I was waiting.  I secretly followed them along a path until they came to a seriously perfect garden/croquet area.  Oh, and did I mention the gorgeous lighting in this spot?  It couldn’t have been a more beautiful scene.  As previously discussed with Matthew, I knew this would be the spot so I prepared myself to start photographing as they sat down on a bench.  I couldn’t see the two of them once they sat down but I kept peeking around the hedge to make sure Matthew wasn’t down on one knee. Finally he pulled her up out of the bench and led her to the perfect spot where I could snap some photos of the big moment.  The whole thing was so, so sweet!! Dede was so surprised and I could tell just by looking at them and seeing them together that they were both overflowing with happiness.  There were tears, laughter, and lots of smiles.  After they had time to gather themselves, we walked around the Inn for a short mini portrait session.  I hardly had to tell these two what to do at all because they were so affectionate and sweet with one another.

I feel honored to have been able to photograph this moment for the two of them and I’m so excited to share these photos.  Oh, and if you have never been to the Inn at Perry Cabin, go there. You will thank me later.  It is one of the most serene and beautiful places I have ever been in the area.