I got a call from Mary from Alabama. She said they were here in Northern Michigan at her mother's cabin on Peach Lake. They hadn't been up here since before Covid. Her son was also coming up, along with his girlfriend Cate. He wanted to surprise her with a wedding proposal, but also surprise Grammy! She didn't know he was planning on proposing to Cate.
The Scenario
So the idea was to have me come to take photos of the family. Then Grammy would think it was for her, and also for Cate to think it was for Grammy. They set up a video camera. Then Grammy told how they happened to buy this property and cabin. She and her husband were a younger married couple and looking for property.
Since she doesn't like to celebrate her birthday, I can't tell you how old she is. 🙂
We had her set on the swing. I got some shots of her alone, and then with members of the family. Also, the video was recording her. She told stories of how they looked at many places in Ogemaw County. Then they found this cabin for a great deal. She also told some fish stories. Her and her husband loved to fish. She told about a fish so big that it had to be kept in the bathtub.
Positioned Correctly
I really appreciated the fact that Lew asked me where the best spot to propose would be. I wanted the lighting to be the best we could get. We discussed everything ahead of time and had no issues about where they would be standing. He listened when I asked him to remember to face her toward the camera, so I could record her expressions. (It is so hard to think clearly, when you're nervous.) Not only that, but I caught some great expressions from Grammy. She kept saying, "Is this real?" "Is this real?"
The ring goes so well with her hazel eyes.
After the Proposal
After the proposal, I spent time with Cate and Lew taking some formal pictures of them together. Although, they aren't a real formal type couple. They enjoy having fun and being goofy, which I loved!
We spent time on the lake with them jumping in the water and the two together in their boat. Then they paddled around on their paddle boat.
Bay City Park
After the proposal, we spent a few hours at a city park in Bay City, MI. There was more of the family that met up with them and a family picnic. We were able to take more pictures of the couple. The park had a pond, bridge and beautiful willow trees. If you would like to visit this beautiful park, it is called Carroll Park and it is on Park Avenue in Bay City, MI
I had a wonderful time with this family. I wish Cate and Lew a happy wedding and a long happy married life together!
If you are interested in learning more about a proposal or engagement session click on this link.
