This Gorgeous Styled Shoot Turned Into an IRL Proposal!

At the picturesque Tahquitz Pines Retreat Center in Idyllwild, CA, a styled shoot turned into a heartwarming real-life proposal for Jen and Amanda.

COJ Events planned a styled shoot design that was anything but ordinary. Set against the lush backdrop the combination of dark colors, leather jackets, and vibrant accents created a striking contrast with the serene environment.

Jen, who works in hair and makeup for the wedding industry, was approached by her friend asking if she and Amanda would model for the upcoming shoot. This request planted a seed in Jen’s mind to turn this styled shoot into something even more meaningful.

“I jokingly told her ‘I can always propose!'” shares Jen. “She, of course, was all in and so excited at the idea of being a part of our proposal. I told her, ‘I’m only kidding, I don’t even have a ring!' which she responded with ‘Who cares! Just find something pretty for now and pick out rings later!' It just made sense! Why not celebrate our love and pop the question? I knew this was the perfect opportunity.”

With just six days to plan, Jen decided to get a tattoo on her ankles with the words Will you marry me? Despite the warm California climate, she managed to keep it hidden from Amanda for three days by wearing socks.

The day of the shoot, Jen and Amanda arrived at Tahquitz Pines Retreat Center. They began by taking photos at different locations of the venue, even highlighting the lively tablescape doused in hues of blue, purple, and pink; wearing dark, edgy attire while doing so. Amanda sported an all-black ensemble with trousers, a leather jacket, and a vibrant boutonniere, while Jen complemented the look with a deep V-neck dress and purple boots. Unbeknownst to Amanda, Jen's boots were hiding a special message.

“They took Amanda away to take individual portraits so I would change shoes to expose my ankles. They then placed her in front of a stunning floral installation,” exclaims Jen. “I made my way down to her with Cathy of COJ Events by my side. Once I saw her, I began tearing up as I gestured to my ankles. She was understandably confused as I mumbled something about how I know we like to joke about always wishing we had a ring to propose at romantic or meaningful locations, like a concert during our favorite song, or watching a beautiful sunset. ”I told her, ‘I want to get on one knee to propose, but I’m not sure I’ll be able to get back up,'” laughs Jen. “We cried and laughed and I asked her if she’d marry me.”

Amanda was overwhelmed with emotion. “I thought you just changed your shoes,” she reminisces with Jen. “And then I saw your ankles. When you said you wanted to get on one knee I remember saying ‘I would help you up.'”

See also

Inspiration Shoots

Edgy Colorful Boho Wedding Inspiration

This day was the perfect blend of planning and spontaneity. And these images from the shoot tell the rest of the story, capturing the raw emotion and beauty of the proposal.

FIND LGBTQ-INCLUSIVE WEDDING PROS IN YOUR AREA

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