Secret Proposal, Ocean City NJ
When Brendan first reached out to me about wanting to propose to Megan and have it photographed, I was super excited! Proposals can happen really fast, so I think it is really cool to be able to document the moments.
He had his approach all planned out and was preparing for this special day for a while. Megan, of course, had no idea. So, on to the sneaky planning of how to capture Brendan proposing.
The secret proposal was going to take place in Ocean City, NJ. This is where Megan had been going every Labor Day weekend with her family since she was a little girl. Brendan started accompanying the family almost every year while they were dating, so this place held a very special meaning for the two of them.
The couple first met in college and they were good friends for a while, got to know one another over time, and began forming a special bond that would lead them down this beautiful road.
Brendan told me where he would like to propose, and because there was rain in the forecast, we waited until the day of to pick the right spot. As I waited on the boardwalk, as a normal pedestrian enjoying the day, the Sun came out ten minutes before Brendan and Megan arrived. The light literally came out just for them!
As soon as they arrived and turned the corner to walk to the designated area, I went into photographer stealth mode, making sure I stayed down and out of sight and started shooting. The two talked for a moment, and before I knew it, I could hear an exclamation of joy from Megan, right before Brendan got down on one knee. Whatever he must’ve said, definitely gave away what was about to happen! Brendan kneeled and Megan’s reactions were just the best! She was so happy and surprised! Once I finally revealed and introduced myself, even I was giddy and high off of their amazing energy!
As we went on to take photos of the now newly engaged couple, it was only natural we discussed all that went into the planning. The little details that were revealed all made sense to Megan at that point; trying on a family ring that her Mom was curious about, her Dad suggesting to wear something nice to dinner that night, the fact that Brendan and Megan were staying a whole extra week for a little vacation. There were other little clues along the way that Brendan was good about keeping under wraps.
We walked down to the beach, played in the water, nestled in some sand dunes and grass, then ended up back near where the proposal took place, by the boardwalk. These two were so adorable in front of the camera! I loved every moment with them. We made some wonderful memories and captured amazing moments together. I am SO happy and excited for them as they start this journey. And, I am extremely thrilled and honored to have been there to witness and photograph their love. Congratulations you two!!
