Proposal in Parker’s Alley
It is always funny how paths cross, time continues, and destiny brings people together. Last week, as guests were taking their seats for a wedding ceremony at Detroit’s Colony Club, one of the event planners that I know walked up and said, “You know, I just mentioned your name to the couple I was giving a tour to. They said they thought that was you! Did you know them? I put in a good word for you.” To be honest, I didn’t even notice them as we were on a tight wedding day timeline; however, it was a very kind gesture on her behalf. The next day, I received an email from Steve asking if I was available for a proposal in Parker’s Alley later that week. Luckily, I had already photographed a proposal in Parker’s Alley just a few months prior and was familiar with the spot.
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Steve and I met outside of the Evening Bar to do some location scouting shortly after his email. It turns out many years have passed but we actually graduated high school together and I knew Lauren through classmates as well. After comparing some notes and sharing updates of mutual friends, I asked him how he and Lauren met. Their meeting was serendipitous: while they knew each other for years, the timing of life never quite aligned. It wasn’t until a mutual friend’s birthday party that they connected. Paths crossed, time stopped, and destiny brought Steve and Lauren together.
The Evening Bar has been a special spot for Steve and Lauren ever since they stopped their on their first date. Steve planned a nice dinner at the nearby Wright & Company and would suggest they grab an after dinner drink at the Evening Bar, requiring them to walk down Parker’s Alley; however, before they would get there, Steve had an important question to ask.
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As Lauren and Steve approached, Becky and I were waiting nearby. As I peeked around the corner, I saw Steve stop in the designated spot and begin to talk with Lauren. Lauren listened intently but it wasn’t until Steve began to take a knee that it all clicked. Her emotions and reaction were priceless. I don’t think I have ever photographed a fiance that joyously laughed as much as she did. Steve and Lauren truly embraced the moment, hugging, celebrating, and laughing as their dreams came true. It was truly an honor to be present for the moment their lives changed.
Even during the mini-engagement session that followed, Lauren would spontaneously burst out into laughter and look down at her ring in disbelief. Her happiness radiated.
