[dropcap]S[/dropcap]urprise proposals are quickly becoming one of my favorite events to capture. I get to help the grooms plan, which is so much fun!! During wedding planning, most of my contact is with the bride! So, to have this time to see how a groom plans things is so much fun! When Ryan told me about his plan to surprise Lacey while on vacation, I was blown away at his attention to detail! We spent weeks refining a plan, that included maps, the 18th hole at the Kiawah Resort Ocean course, plans for fake phone calls and the surprise of a lifetime for Lacey!!

The day was here, and everything was planned! Ryan and Lacey flew to Charleston from Oklahoma and had spent the week in the sun on Kiawah Island with Ryan’s family. I arrive at the Ocean Course early to make sure I am in place. Ryan sent a text to let me know that they were on their way!! Adrenaline rush is the best way to describe how I feel every time right before a proposal. That fast beating heart, and shaky hands!! The best sort of feeling!

I watched as Ryan and Lacey walk across the lawn towards the 18th hole! Ryan quickly glanced over to make sure I was in place! As they cross the path, I quickly follow, being sure that Lacey doesn’t see me! I watch as Ryan pulls Lacey in close to proclaim his love for her! Lacey rocks back and forth holding both of Ryan’s hands, smiling from ear to ear. And then that moment, the one where the man of your dreams drops to one knee, happened for Lacey!! Tears!! The happy couple embraced multiple times before Lacey even realized I was eaves dropping on the entire moment! Capturing every ounce of emotion for them to relive over and over! But the surprises were not over yet!!

Lacey and Ryan were generous enough to let me take a few portraits of them, newly engaged! I watched as Lacey excitedly called her mom!! No answer. That’s ok, let’s try dad! Again, no answer! Lacey said it was ok, and she will try again later. So we continued with some pictures and Ryan called his family to join them at the golf course. Lacey glanced at the country club to see not only Ryan’s family walk out, but her parents and brother. Tears!! Again! Ryan then tells Lacey “I wouldn’t do it without them here!” And that my friends is a how Ryan pulled off the ultimate proposal! Ryan and Lacey, I am so thrilled that I got to be a part of one of the most important days in your lives. Your love for each other and your families assures me that you will have an amazing future together!! Congratulations on your engagement, and happy wedding planning!

 

 

 

XO Natasha