If you’re considering proposing to your significant other, I highly recommend hiring a professional photographer to make the moment picture-perfect. Flagstaff proposals are beautiful in any season but there’s always a joy-filled atmosphere for those that come before the holidays. Proposals just before Christmas are extra special, brimming with excitement to see friends and family to celebrate.

Jay and Ashley will attest that the holiday season makes for a picture-perfect Flagstaff proposal. December 16th was their date and I am so appreciative that I was able to share in their story.

Jay and Ashley have been together for 4 years, through college and their respective career fields in Finance and Business Management. They met while attending Northern Arizona University during their freshman year after collaborating on a group project in a business class. The couple really hit it off after becoming friends – they began dating a year later. During their time in Flagstaff, the couple loved to picnic at Buffalo Park so Jay knew it would be the perfect area to propose!

Jay and I coordinated on details in the weeks prior to the proposal. Immediately I was impressed with his well-thought out plan. Although I provide a detailed proposal guide for every client to help for every scenario, Jay knew exactly what he wanted right from the start.

Jay, above all, wanted the proposal to be a surprise for Ashley. He asked me to wait at the front gate of the park at golden hour as they arrived. After traveling all the way from the sunny City of Phoenix that afternoon, Jay and I made brief eye contact, smiling when Ashley wasn’t looking. Then I followed in secret as they stepped into the park.

I felt like the coolest secret agent ever as I hid my camera under my coat. Jay and Ashley set the perfect pace, enjoying their stroll into the beautiful meadow, the San Francisco Peaks in the background. The setting could not have been more perfect – it was exactly as Jay requested.

As Jay walked Ashley to the middle of the field, he took her hands. Then he spoke, sharing his love for her and their 4 years together. Then he revealed the absolutely stunning ring. I was mere feet away, capturing every magical moment on camera.

As soon as my client is down on one knee, I always let the moment unfold naturally. The result? Images truly help tell the story of the surprise, my couples have high-quality images to share with friends and family. Perfect for the holidays, just as Jay planned.

Jay and Ashley, CONGRATULATIONS again on your picture-perfect Flagstaff proposal. I loved meeting you both and feel so thankful to have the privilege of documenting this celebratory moment! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness!

Thank you so much for reading, keep up with my latest work on Instagram. Take a look at additional proposal and engagement photography at the following: Airport Engagement Portrait Session, Autumn Engagement Session, Surprise Sedona Proposal.