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  • How to Plan the Perfect Proposal – A Step-by-Step Guide

    How to Plan the Perfect Proposal – A Step-by-Step Guide

    To plan the perfect proposal, start with what feels meaningful to you both, then work through the details step by step: choose a location and time with good light, plan whether it is a surprise, arrange a photographer, and prepare a few heartfelt words. This guide walks you through each step.

    So, how exactly do you propose. Let’s jump right in!

    So, you’re getting ready to pop the big question…will you marry me?

    Planning your proposal can be daunting. Proposing to your partner is a big deal and is a significant step in any relationship, but I am here to help you. I have compiled a list of important factors to make your proposal process stress-free.


    Understand Your Partner’s Expectations and Desires When it Comes to your Proposal

    Communication Matters

    Start by having some real heart-to-heart conversations about your future together. Find out if marriage is what your partner wants and what they envision for both your engagement and wedding.

    Pay Attention

    Keep your eyes and ears open for any hints your partner might drop about their dream proposal. I recommend keeping a private word document or a note to compile each tip on. These clues are golden!


    Choosing the Right Setting and Timing for your Proposal

    Finding the Perfect Spot

    Think about places that hold sentimental meaning to both of you. It could be where you first met, where you went on your first date, where you first told them you loved them, where you established your relationship, or anywhere that holds special value and meaning to you.

    Timing Is Everything When Planning your Proposal

    I would consider whether there are significant dates or events that can add to the magic of your proposal. On the day itself, either stick to the plan you’ve formulated or go with instinct. Choosing a moment where you both feel relaxed and happy will make it that much more special.


    Selecting the Ideal Ring for your Proposal

    Investigate Ring Preferences

    Before you get engaged and pick out a ring, talk about their style and preferences in jewelry, do they like antique styles, modern styles, and importantly what is their ring size. Before going to a jeweler, observe the styles that are currently in their jewelry collection. If you want more information, here is a Vogue article about mistakes to avoid when purchasing a ring for your proposal!

    Budget and Sizing

    Before you go to the jeweler, determine a range of how much you want to spend on your engagement ring and make sure the ring you select is within that range. Additionally, before you go, make sure you know your partner’s ring size!


    Creating a Personal Proposal

    Adding Your Personal Touch

    Your proposal should be personal and unique to your relationship. Do not copy a speech that is online. Pull from significant memories and moments that have shed light on why your partner is so important to you. Your proposal should reflect the depth of your connection and your journey together.

    Speak from the Heart

    When you plan out your speech, don’t write a precise script. Write down which moments you want to mention and what attributes draw you to them and make them so special. Tell them exactly why you want to spend the rest of your life with them.


    Involving Loved Ones and Capturing the Moment

    Bringing in the Crew

    If your partner wants a big engagement or would love for their family to be a part of their special moment, consider inviting them. And last but not least, don’t forget to hire a photographer to capture the special moment!

    Keep Calm and Confident

    Nerves are absolutely normal but trust your relationship and the time and energy you’ve invested in building your partnership. So, take a deep breath and let your love and adoration shine through.


    After the Proposal: Celebrate and Plan Ahead

    Time to Celebrate

    After your partner says yes, plan something special to celebrate the moment together! This could be anything from a simple dinner to a grand celebration or party with friends and family. Regardless of what it is, celebrate that moment in a unique way to both of you.

    Reflect and Dream

    Take some time to talk about your married future together. Reflect on the milestone and get excited about what lies ahead.


    To Conclude

    Proposing can be nerve-wracking but is also incredibly beautiful. And it definitely doesn’t have to be daunting. Remember that by following these steps and considering your partner’s wishes, you’ll create a proposal that’s uniquely your own. Lastly, trust all of the work and love that exists in your relationship.

  • The Beautiful Colorado Street Bridge and its Eery History

    The Beautiful Colorado Street Bridge and its Eery History

    The Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena is a striking choice for a city engagement session because its grand historic arches and the parks and trails beneath it give you both dramatic architecture and natural scenery, along with a little of the bridgeu2019s famous, eerie history.

    Looking for a unique city engagement session? The Colorado Street Bridge and the surrounding parks and trails might be perfect for you. The Bridge has beautiful views and is close to gorgeous parks and trails, such as the Desiderio Neighborhood Park and the Lower Arroyo Trails.

    Colorado Street Bridge History

    Illuminated Colorado Street Bridge at night.

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    The Colorado Street Bridge has a sordid history dating back to the Great Depression. The bridge was designed and built in 1912 and contains Beaux arches and picturesque streetlights. This Bridge has made numerous television debuts. Notably, this bridge was featured in La La Land.


    Pricing and Permits:

    Beautiful trees located near the Desiderio Neighborhood Park

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    To do your engagement session at the Colorado Street Bridge, the Lower Arroyo Seco Trails, or the Desiderio Neighborhood park does not require a permit. These locations are often not busy and the trees that outline the neighborhood are gorgeous in photographs. The one downfall of these locations is that there is not an easily accessible bathroom. However, there is aprking available in the nieghborhood and at the Lower Arroyo Seco Park.


    Photo Opportunities

    Beautiful greenery in the Lower Arroyo Seco Trail located in Pasadena

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    Beautiful stone wall in the Lower Arroyo Trail

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    The Colorado Street Bridge is beautiful and is the perfect location for a sunset or sunrise engagement session. At the base of the Colorado Bridge is the Desiderio Neighborhood Park. The park has a clear view of the bridge and has benches, picnic tables, a paved path perfect for an engagement session.

    Another favorite of mine are the benches at Desiderio Park are perfect for cozy engagement photographs. One of my favorite prompts for my couples is to have them sit on the bench, look at each other and tell me the story of how they met or their funniest date/adventure together. This always gets some authentic laughs and smiles.

    Nearby, is the Below the Colorado Street Bridge is the Lower Arroyo Seco Trail, which is gorgeous. Walking along the road between the John K. Van De Kamp Bridge and Colorado Street Bridge, I discovered a gorgeous hidden trail with a stone wall. The stone wall on this trail is partially covered by moss and is absolutely beautiful. Additionally, the neighborhood surrounding the John K. Van De Kamp Bridge and the Colorado Street Bridge are stunning and full of lush trees.

  • See the magnificent views from Bluff Cove of the Lighthouse

    See the magnificent views from Bluff Cove of the Lighthouse

    Engagement Photography Opportunities

    Beautiful white cottages at Bluff Cove in Rancho Palos Verdes
    Elili Brown Photography

    A hidden beauty in greater Los Angeles area is Bluff Cove. Rancho Palos Verdes is filled with scenic views and sheer natural beauty. Bluff Cove itself overlooks the Pacific Ocean, providing a breathtaking setting to capture romantic and mesmerizing engagement photographs. Unlike other scenic overlooks, Bluff Cove has both sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, allowing both looks in your engagement photographs. Mixed in with a gorgeous sunrise or sunset, the backdrop will be nothing short of dreamy and will encapsulate the romance of your love story.

    Beuatiful sunset at bluff cove in Rancho Palos Verdes
    Elili Brown Photography

    Bluff Cove is tucked away, like a little secret in Palos Verdes, and not crazily populated. So your engagement session will be intimate and let both of you relax, so I can capture each heartfelt moment. Regardless of if we take engagement photographs while you both stroll along the shore, or admire the view of the cascading ocean, there will be no shortage of picture-perfect opportunities.

    The waves crashing along the shore, the rocky coastline, and greenery adorning the coast will add diversity to your engagement photographs and provide an almost mystical background. I know, at least for me, the sound of waves, immediately puts me at ease. So, if you are anything like me, this will help you relax and create authentic photographs. Perfect to celebrate taking your engagement.

    To Conclude:

    Bluff Cove offers magical views of the Pacific Ocean, creating an intimate and romantic ambience. Mixed with a sunset, this engagement location is picturesque and will let us take the engagement photographs of your dreams!