When Andrew contacted me to ask about photographing his proposal to Shelby, I just about lost it with excitement. The two of them met at Providence College, and were returning for an alumni weekend visit with friends and a Friars basketball game - or so Shelby thought. Andrew and I were in constant contact via text on the morning of (he put me in his phone as "Jeff" just to throw Shelby off the trail), and he let us know exactly when we should expect them to come walking down the path that he had chosen for the big surprise. Meanwhile, my second shooter Liz and I were crouching behind parked cars and trying to be as inconspicuous as possible. Nothing to see here, folks!! 

When the moment came, we ran out and started snapping away. I had been afraid that we'd be a distraction in the moment, so we were sure to stay far back, but we didn't need to worry, because when Andrew got down on one knee and pulled out that gorgeous ring, Shelby had total tunnel vision. Andrew pointed us out a few moments later and she was in total shock that he had been able to pull the whole thing off. She kept saying, "But you're terrible at secrets!!"

See that hiked up pant leg? That's where Andrew had been hiding the ring all morning. To be sure it would stay put, he did a practice run and wore it all day at work the week before. This guy was prepared.

In the week leading up to the big moment, Andrew called me just about every day to talk over the details. Later on, he told me that he had been bursting with the secret and just really needed to talk to someone who knew what was going on.

Shelby gets a look at the ring for the first time. It's a goooooood one. Well done, Andrew.

After a few excited phone calls, we headed out for a walk around the PC campus to some of Andrew & Shelby's favorite spots.

I had been out to the PC campus earlier in the week to check out some possible photo locations, and my three year old was so excited when we got to Harkins Hall. He kept yelling "Mommy, its a castle!!" It is pretty Hogwarts-ish (Hogwartty?) 

I'm only photographing proposals for the rest of my life. Seriously, I don't think I've ever had an easier time getting a couple to laugh and smile. These two were just so excited. How amazing for them to have these images to look at years down the road. Can you imagine having photos like this of your parents or grandparents? Sigh. I love what I do.

These two are just the sweetest. Shelby, you have the best smile.

About halfway through campus, Shelby's friends found us and rushed over for hugs and congratulations.

A few more phone calls to show of that rock.

The two of them met during their freshman year on a bus trip, so when we saw this, we had to stop for a few snuggles.

Honestly, this was so ridiculously fun and one of the best things I've ever photographed. If you're thinking of proposing to your person, get in touch! Or just start leaving your browser open to this blog page like hint, hint!

Andrew, you are a gem. I am so glad that you got in touch to plan this. It was an honor to be a part of such an amazing moment, and a total joy to photograph you both. The two of you are so lovely - you were made for each other!