Dante + Naomi / Surprise Thanksgiving Proposal

Surprise proposals!! Who doesn’t love them?? I’ve been a part of a few by now and honestly, they never get less nerve-wracking. The magnitude of the situation is not lost on me, and I’m both excited/terrified/emotional every time.

This sneaky scheme began when Naomi’s best friend Olivia (a hair dresser at my salon) reached out to let me know she wanted to gift Naomi a mini-session for her birthday. Shortly after, she let me in on the secret that Dante was going to take the opportunity to propose. Marriage! The plan was that Dante’s sister would hide the ring inside a tiny pumpkin, in a bag, along with some other fun props that I was to introduce under the guise of wanting some more Autumnal shots. I walked them around the Arboretum to shoot for a while (probably absolutely KILLING Dante with suspense) until I found a spot I deemed secluded and ideal enough for the proposal. I think I can confidently say both Dante and I’s hearts were racing as I handed him the pumpkin, pretending to adjust Naomi’s rain-misted hair while he got into position on one knee. And the rest, is history! I think it took Naomi several beats to actually believe what was happening. Despite the slight rain and pulling a fast one on Naomi, their mini proposal session was the most charming and precious thing. And on Thanksgiving weekend, no less. Thanks D + N <3