PHOTODELPHIA

There’s something truly special about witnessing a best friend’s dream come true, and that’s exactly what I had the privilege of experiencing recently! Mary and I have been inseparable since we were three years old, our friendship blossoming from our early days in “stepping stones” to our shared years back in college. Though we haven’t seen each other in person for over two years, our bond has remained unbreakable. Little did Mary know, we were about to have the most magical reunion and celebration after her surprise proposal!

When Mary’s fiancé reached out to me with a secret plan to propose, I was beyond honored to be a part of such a significant moment in their lives! Two months before the big engagement, Will called and told me he was planning to propose! Needless to say, I freaked out on the phone and followed up with a million questions. That’s when he told me he had planned an entire weekend getaway with her and was starting the weekend with the proposal at Longwood Gardens. The true love story proposal she deserved.

The Ultimate Secret

Behind the scenes, Mary and I were casually planning a formal hangout for the week after the proposal in an attempt to throw off any suspicion of me talking to her all the time. Will had shared with me that his adopted mom would be there as well, and while we waited for the couple to arrive, she and I had a grand time exchanging stories!

The Fairytale Proposal

I had Will’s location, and once he walked towards the rose garden, it was GO TIME (aka time to hide behind the wall). Will’s mom kept guard since Mary had never met her. Before I knew it, she was telling me, “I think it’s happening,” and naturally, the garden was full of people when he got down on one knee. I had to run through the crowd, positioning myself just right to capture the perfect shot!

The joy of photographing moments like these comes from embracing the unpredictability and going with the flow. Despite the challenges, everything came together beautifully, and we had an amazing rest of the day exploring together!

Exploring The Garden

Lucky for me, I was able to share all the must-see spots in Longwood gardens with Mary and Will, since this was their first time visiting this magical oasis! We started our day on cloud 9 in the rose garden and floated our way around the tower, water fountains, conservatory, DuPont house and ended our session by the gorgeous walkway of flowers down by the small theater. So much to see in so little time! I will truly never get tired of this place and always love a good couples or engagement session amidst all the natural beauty.

As we explored the garden’s stunning vistas and hidden nooks, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to document this magical chapter in their love story!

From Playdates to Proposals

As a photographer, few things are more rewarding than capturing the genuine emotions and love between two people. Watching Mary, my childhood best friend, and Will’s secret proposal at Longwood was profoundly meaningful. Their engagement represents their deep connection and the privilege of witnessing multiple chapters of each other’s lives unfold!

Whether it’s a secret engagement or another significant occasion, I’d love to help tell your unique love story. Reach out here to discuss how we can make your photography dreams come true!

Romance Novels by M.K. Morris

I can’t finish this blog without sharing that Mary is an amazing author! If you love contemporary romance, her work is a must-read. Make sure to check out her books at Barnes & Noble or add them to your GoodReads!