A Surprise Proposal at Fort Totten

This recent engagement session warms my heart. The couple has such a sweet love story. They met in elementary school, dated in middle school for a brief time, reconnected in college and have been together ever since. To say that they are meant to be is an understatement. One of their first dates was a walk on the path along the Cross Island Parkway and it is a place they visit frequently. So, my client wanted to propose to her near that area. His plan was a great one. Choosing a location that is authentic to you as a couple is one way to avoid arousing suspicion for the big day.

My client wasn’t sure where exactly where in that area he wanted to propose, so when we met for our pre session consultation we walked through the area to choose the perfect spot. He wanted a view of the bridge behind them, so we chose a secure location on the jetty for him to pop the question. This location is a beautiful and serene location.

The week leading up to the proposal was a very rainy week, but thankfully, the weather was perfect on the morning of the session. It was a mild 74 degrees and overcast, which is perfect lighting for day sessions. I arrived about an hour prior to the session to secure the area and to ensure that I was fully set up for when he arrived.

We chose a location at the foot of the jetty at which it was flattest and safest for him to get down on one knee to ask her to marry him. When they first arrived, the beautiful couple took a leisurely stroll down to the end of the jetty and took in the beautiful scenery. I knew they would be doing this ahead of time and we already had a specific spot for him to pop the question, which was discreetly marked for him. He also knew where both he and she should stand. Once he was at the spot and it was go time, I clicked away and captured all of their joy.

After the proposal, we took a few engagement portraits on the jetty and then made our way into Fort Totten Park for some more photos. It is such a gorgeous location with so much character. I just love how much this couple laughed together throughout this segment of the session. It is so clear that they are in love. Once the session was done, they were off to share the good news with their family.

It was an absolute pleasure to work with this couple and I know they all have a lifetime of happiness together. Here are some of my favorites from the day.