Despite the fact that I’ve taken hundreds of maternity photos over the years, I can honestly say that I have never witnessed something quite as special as this session. It wasn’t because of the location, the sunset, the outfits, or the ever-so-perfect baby bump – don’t get me wrong, all of those things were wonderful! What made this photoshoot so special to me was the fact that I got to bear witness to my very own niece, Carace, getting engaged during this beautiful, love-filled surprise.
In recent years, photographers like me have seen an influx in the “photo shoot proposal” trend – it’s when a couple arrives for a “planned photoshoot” (think: Christmas photos, family photos, pics with the kiddos or pup, etc.), and mid-way through the session, someone drops to one knee to pop the big question! That’s basically what happened with my niece’s photoshoot.
This session was kind of a two-in-one, playing double-duty as both a family/maternity session and an engagement session! Carace and her partner traveled down all the way from their home in Kamloops for what she thought was solely going to be a celebration of their new baby on the way. Carace’s partner only divulged his secret plan to me right before the photoshoot began, and that evening’s sunset set the stage for the big surprise!
Just before he popped the question, I made sure to instruct Carace to keep looking at the camera so that he could take the ring out of his pocket and present it. When the big moment happened, Carace was super shocked and started to cry happy tears. Her partner was so nervous, but you wouldn’t be able to tell from the photos. It’s just their family – the love between the two of them, now officially fiancees – and a beautiful moment in time.
This special occasion took place in Blackie Spit Park – a stunning City park located in the Crescent Beach neighborhood of South Surrey. The park is named after the dramatic spit that extends into surrounding Mud Bay near the entrance of the Nicomekl River. On a clear day, Blackie Spit offers amazing views of Mud Bay and the North Shore Mountains.
Crescent Beach is where my niece grew up, so this gorgeous location has always been her “happy place” and held a special place in her heart. After this surprise proposal, I’m certain that it will hold an even more special place in her heart for many years to come.
Because Carace originally thought this session was a maternity session, she had selected some gorgeous gowns from our maternity gown closet. Both her pink dress and white lace dresses were designed by Mii Estillo, while her red bodysuit is by Amy Corneau Couture. And because I know I’ll have some mamas asking – I’ll apologize in advance – I don’t have the designer details of Carace’s fluffy red dress to share because it is a treasure that was purchased second-hand!
I hope you all enjoyed these gorgeous photos as much as I did! If you have any questions about family sessions, maternity sessions, or any kind of special creative session, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have many different photoshoot package options available, and I’d love to hear from you about how I might be able to help capture your many special moments in time! Contact me and my team at any time.
Ps. My niece Carace and her fiance had their happy, healthy baby girl in August. I’m so happy for them! Here’s to hoping she’ll visit from Kamloops again soon so that I can capture updated photos of the whole family, including her newest little addition.
