Rooftop proposal in Detroit

A few weeks ago, Brad texted me. “It looks like it is my turn to need your help.” Without going any further, I knew what he was referring to. “No way!” I responded. “Congratulations!” Then the photo of the engagement ring came through our text thread and I almost fell over. “Gorgeous Brad. I am so happy for you.” I have known Brad for a number of years and have never seen him as at ease or as happy as when he is with Kalie. They truly complement and complete each other. When I asked him about details, he said he was thinking of asking Kalie to marry him in a rooftop proposal in Detroit. He sent me a photo of the view. It was perfect.

I met Brad on top of the rooftop on a windy afternoon to plan the proposal. We bounced around a few ideas and settled in on the location and approach. There was just one problem: how do I hide when it is an open and empty rooftop? Luckily, Brad had some extra construction hard hats, vests, and barrels for me to (somewhat) blend in and look like I belonged. With a clipboard in hand (to make me look official, of course), Brad drove Kalie up to the top floor of the roof and began to execute his rooftop proposal in Detroit.

At first Kalie was confused, but something clicked when Brad reached into his pocket.

In just a split second, both of their dreams came true.

Wearing a hard hat, vest, and Carhartt jacket was enough to blend in apparently. It took Kalie a few to realize why I was there. This moment in a proposal always makes me laugh as now it all starts to make sense for the new fiance.

With the help of Douglas from Black Tie White Dress Productions, Brad had the proposal filmed as well via drone and hidden cameras. Here, Brad and Kalie see the drone for the first time.

Ok, back to ring admiration and celebration!

This calls for champagne!

I love this photo! This is the start of something new for Brad and Kalie.

Brad had one more surprise for Kalie: their dog, Tito, joined in the fun.

I always encourage the couple to schedule some time after the proposal for some engagement photos. The emotions are so real and so raw after a proposal. You can’t fake this excitement. I love capturing how happy the couple is after a proposal.

As the sun began to set on Brad’s rooftop proposal in Detroit, we went inside the tunnel for a few more photos.