When Steven found out that Mindy and I had set up family photos, he came to me with stars in his eyes as he told me he thought this was the perfect opportunity to propose to her. From that point on we planned how to go about it, we even took a secret trip to the gardens to check it out and get an idea of what spots would be the most perfect. We ALMOST got busted by Mindy that day! She just so happened to be driving down the same street as us and Steven quickly commanded me to duck. Let’s think this through a little further. First of all how close was that?!? Second of all, this could end up even worse if she did happen to see a girl in the front of his truck ducking when she drives by, oh my heavens was that a close one! After purchasing the ring, he brought it to me where it would be safe and hidden from Mindy until the big day.

It’s the day of their “family” session and I’m pretty sure I was more nervous than Steven. What if my camera settings aren’t right fast enough, what if the photos come out blurry because I am trying to capture this quick moment, what if she catches us giving him the ring, what if, what if, what if. Goodness gracious I was a nervous wreck. But I knew we still needed to capture some family photos first so I focused on that while I secretly searched for the perfect spot with the perfect light!

Finally, I found THE spot, the “Magical” spot (that was our secret code word). I did a few photos there with the kids to check the lighting and get my camera setting. I gave Ana a reassuring nod that this was it and to secretly get the ring to Steven while I distracted Mindy with photos of her and the kiddos. Then I told Mindy and Steven, “Okay, lets try a few with just the two of you here in this spot while the lighting is perfect.” We did a traditional pose that I normally would’ve done with my couples, took a few shots (to test that my camera was absolutely ready and give Steven some time to prepare himself.) I then told them that I wanted to try one more pose, I gave Steven an assuring nod to let him know it was time and before I could click my shutter he was down on one knee and Mindy didn’t even know what was happening.

You’d think this is when it got easy for me but oh noooo, now I am tearing up from behind the camera, I can’t even tell if the photos are in focus and I’m shaking from being so excited and nervous all while trying to keep my camera steady and capture this moment int the most beautiful way possible. All I could hear was the sound of mine and Ana’s shutters clicking away as fast as they could.

Okay now back to the proposal. Steven got down on one knee, and I think it took sweet Mindy a few second to truly grasp what was going on. But once she realized what was really happening, all you could see was her bright blue eyes light up with excitement and her smile shine so bright you could see it from a mile away! It was one of those moments that happens so quickly but it was so full of joy and excitement.

Seeing the joy on Mindy’s face and the relief and pride in Stevens was one of the most fulfilling things I’ve got to experience. I wish these two more happiness than they can handle! Capturing these memories are what I live for and I never take it for granted! What an honor to be able to witness and preserve these beautiful memories!!

Steven, Mindy, I couldn’t be more excited for you I wish you the biggest Congratulations!

Big Hugs and lots of love,

Brandy