Sunset Proposal at Pavilion Park
Dillion and Lynette’s sunset proposal at Pavilion Park in Novi, Michigan.
Ever since proposing to my wife Becky, I have offered people help with planning and photographing their proposal. Seeing my own proposal pictures was the first time I felt emotionally connected to a photo of myself (I am normally behind the camera). To be able to give that emotional memory to a couple is such an honor and a gift.
Dillion emailed me about 6 weeks ago, inquiring about proposal photography. Most guys come with a relative blank slate when it comes to the idea or location of the proposal. Not Dillion. After dating Lynette for two years, he knew the perfect proposal for her. Sunsets have played a consistent role in their relationship, giving them an opportunity to connect and reflect on a daily basis. With sunsets being their favorite daily activity, he wanted to propose at lake at sunset. With that requirement, we got to work. We looked at Stony Creek, Belle Isle, Independence Oaks, and Kensington Metropark for the perfect spot. Together, we decided on the Pavilion Park at Novi.
Little did I know that there is a running joke in their relationship that Dillion has the worst of luck. True to form, Dillion’s luck was with us on their shoot as well. Our originally planned spot was taken by large family. Parking was a nightmare and to top it all off, it started raining! As families were scattering and heading for cover, Lynette must have wondered why Dillion was so adamant about staying. Little did she know that the couple lounging behind them were there to photograph her proposal. We were just waiting for the sun to set and for Dillion to find the perfect time. With a look over his shoulder and a nod of his head, I knew it was time. Becky, who accompanied me on this proposal as we came directly from another wedding, began to walk into position while I stayed put.
As Dillion began to talk to Lynette, she had her inklings as to what was happening. However, once Dillion began to take a knee, she gracefully fell to her knees as well in pure shock and joy. It was such a beautiful and genuine gesture. She couldn’t believe what was happening. She said “yes” to spending the rest of her life with her best friend.
I absolutely love Lynette’s reaction to Dillion’s sunset proposal. It is pure joy.
Guests who sat through the rain witnessed the sunset proposal. As the proposal was unfolding, some murmured “It’s happening! OMG, he’s proposing.” After giving Dillion and Lynette a few moments together, guests applauded and cheered.
As the sun continued to set, it was time to celebrate and document their love. Dillion snuck in some bubbly, which they enthusiastically opened.
It is so important, both during proposals and on wedding days, to take a few minutes to just be alone. Once the champagne was poured, I told Dillion and Lynette to just hug and let it all sink in. This is the image I captured during that time.
With the sun only lasting a few more minutes, it was time to photograph some formal portraits of them to commemorate their sunset proposal.
Knowing how important the sunset is to Dillion and Lynette, I wanted to create an image (or two) that was just them and the sunset. Easily my favorites.
