It was a warm spring day with a hint of summer in the air. The sun was bright, the shade was cool and the flowers were blooming. Natalie thought we were there for some spring family pictures, but Julian had much more up his sleeve. When he got out of his truck he looked at me and said “I can’t stop sweating”. I just smiled and said “Yes… It is a warm day *wink* *wink*”.

She had no idea.

Then while she was changing clothes, we set the plan in action. I hid his Bible in my bag and we went over some last minute details to make sure everything was in place. So far everything had gone according to plan, but still the nerves had Julian shaking and sweating. Good thing Natalie didn’t notice.

Because she still had no idea what was about to happen.

We moved to a more shaded area, out of the heat and one of the prettiest spots at the park. I told them I had saved the best location for last, and that’s when Julian walked over to me and grabbed his Bible. Natalie was busy watching the puppies play that she didn’t even notice. Julian handed her his phone and said “Watch the video”. She looked up at him confused, but complied.

The next few minutes she listened to the love of her life tell her how much he loved her. He excitedly talked about their future together. And then he said he had a question to ask her. That’s when Natalie looked up and saw Julian walking towards her. He knew he couldn’t have gotten through that in person without crying, and even now, watching his future bride hear him pour out his heart, tears were welling in his eyes. Julian loved Natalie, and wanted her to know.

As he approached, Natalie’s eyes blurred.
Oh my gosh. It was actually happening.
Julian took the phone from her trembling hands and pulled out his Bible. He showed her two passages in the Bible that talked about marriage and wives, and explained to her that he couldn’t have found anyone else who completed him and truly exemplified a good wife than her.

He took the ring, got down on one knee and said the words Natalie had dreamt about hearing since she was a little girl.

“Natalie Mahan. Will you marry me?”

All she could whisper out was “yes”, but that’s all he needed.

The ring slid over Natalie’s finger and fit perfectly. She wrapped her arms around Julian, and hugged him tight. She still couldn’t believe it had finally happened, but here she was, standing next to her fiance.
Wow!

The rest of the session was spent celebrating the newly engaged couple and snapping some quick “we’re engaged!” pictures. What a fun evening! I LOVE shooting proposals and getting to be a part of such a life-changing and exciting surprise.

Congratulations, Natalie and Julian!! I am SO happy for you 🙂