Colorado Surprise Proposal Photography
Planning a Proposal in Colorado
Are you ready to take your relationship to the next level with a proposal?
As a Colorado proposal photographer, I've helped plan and photograph surprise proposals everywhere from mountain tops to state parks. However, a successful proposal is so much more than just beautiful scenery (although we definitely don’t have a shortage of that in Colorado.) Some folks aren’t sure where to start with planning their proposal, but that is why I am here to help! I promise I’ve got your back to make sure everything goes off without a hitch, and all you have to focus on is your partner saying “yes!”
If you're wondering where the heck to start with proposal planning in Colorado, here's everything I recommend.
What Would Your Partner Like?
When you think about your partner’s personality, where is a spot that is meaningful to them, or to you both?
Would they love a secluded mountain overlook with nobody around? Would they prefer a quick walk to an epic view rather than a big hike? Or are they someone who would want a proposal surrounded by friends and family, followed by a nice dinner?
Picking a spot that resonates with these unique needs ensures that everyone is comfortable!
Ask Your Photographer!
A seasoned proposal photographer isn’t just here to take gorgeous photos. When couples reach out to me, I am here for the whole process from start to finish. This includes:
Assistance with finding the perfect proposal location (and help with any necessary permits, for example, securing a permit for the Denver Botanic Gardens!) I also have a location guide that will help you start envisioning the location options.
Finding hidden spots away from crowds.
Determining the best time of day.
Creating a believable cover story.
Monitoring weather conditions and coming up with a backup plan (or ways to embrace the weather.)
Coordinating proposal logistics - how will you arrive, the exact coordinates of where to meet, how we will find each other, etc.
I want your main focus to be on soaking up the moment while I handle everything behind the scenes.
Choose the Right Proposal Location
Colorado is filled with incredible proposal spots, but not every location works well for surprise proposals.
Some of my favorite types of locations include:
Mountain Overlooks
Colorado's mountain overlooks offer incredible views with minimal hiking. These are great if you want a dramatic backdrop without making your partner suspicious by suddenly suggesting a 5 mile hike.
Alpine Lakes
Alpine lakes are beautiful, especially in summer and early fall. The reflections on the water coupled with a beautiful backdrop make for a romantic evening by the water. Some of my favorite spots include Brainard Lake and Dillon Reservoir.
Red Rock Landscapes
Locations around Red Rocks in Morrison, or areas within Colorado Springs like Garden of the Gods offer other worldly scenery. Red rock formations create dramatic photos while often being easier to access.
Meaningful Locations
Sometimes the best proposal location isn't even about the most epic backdrop.
Maybe it's the trail where you took your first hike together, the coffee shop where you had your first date, or a secret spot that you visit for picnics. These authentic feeling locations provide a space for you to reflect on everything that lead you to this day.
Have a Weather Backup Plan
I've photographed proposals in extreme sun, sudden snowfall, wind by the lakes, and everything in between.
Even during summer, mountain weather can can sometimes provide surprises.
Here are a few quick planning tips to make sure you both are comfortable:
Dress in layers, regardless of the forecast. Colorado is famous for multiple different types of weather during a short span of time.
Have a backup location ready. If your date isn’t flexible and the forecast looks too risky, there is nothing wrong with pivoting from the mountain top to a sweet dinner with champagne inside the Airbnb.
Timing is key for good lighting! 1.5 hours before sunset is your best bet for that golden hour glow without the sun burning into your retinas while you look into your partner’s eyes.
Don't panic if conditions change. Because I am also an elopement photographer, most of my sessions are outdoors, so I’m a pro at handling those last minute changes.
Often times embracing the weather makes for the most beautifully dramatic photos!
How to Keep the Proposal a Surprise
Ahh the #1 question… how do you pull off a true surprise when your partner knows you so well?! The key is having a legitimate sounding reason for being at the location, while stashing the ring somewhere safe like a hidden pocket in your jacket.
Some sneaky ideas could include:
Planning a day trip during your Colorado vacation.
Scheduling a couples photo session and proposing during it.
Visiting a scenic overlook on the way to dinner for some “sight-seeing.”
Keep your cover simple story simple as to not raise suspicion. I will be as incognito as I can, and ask you what you are wearing beforehand so I am able to identify you both. My cover story is usually pretending to be taking photos of the surrounding landscape, and then once I see you get down on one knee, that is my cue to start capturing your proposal!
Timing Matters More Than Most People Realize
As I mentioned earlier, proposals near sunset are the best for lighting, but also privacy. I’ve noticed that most of the hiking in Colorado happens earlier in the day, so by sunset, many of my favorite locations are cleared out of crowds. The last thing we want is a hiker walking through your special moment. I will give you detailed instructions of how to find the exact spot to propose that has the highest chance of being the most private. (Unless you want to propose somewhere public like a restaurant and don’t mind people watching.)
Another option is renting out a space for your proposal. Peerspace offers rentable locations, including one of my favorites called Fort Greene Bar. Rentable spaces allow you to set up flowers, champagne, and any other decor that might be tricker to pull off in nature.
Have a Plan for After the Proposal
Your partner said yes! What comes after? I always recommend setting aside time for engagement photos immediately afterward. This doesn’t have to be a long session, just enough to capture some photos of you both looking stoked, some shots of the ring, and any other candid moments that will help you re-live the day.
After the proposal, topping it all off with a dinner reservation, celebration with friends, or a picnic are some meaningful ways to celebrate this monumental day.
Ready to Plan Your Colorado Surprise Proposal?
I hope these tips have helped get the wheels spinning as your brainstorm how you want your proposal to look. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Each relationship is different, and celebrating in a way that feels real to you both as a couple is the most important thing. Your proposal does not have to look like anyone else’s. As a Colorado proposal photographer and Colorado engagement photographer, I help couples keep the focus on their connection during the entire proposal process. I never want your proposal to simply feel like a photo shoot. Focusing on your emotions and helping keep couples relaxed is part of what makes working with me so easy!
If you're planning a surprise proposal in Colorado, feel free to reach out so you can start getting excited for the perfect proposal plan. Cheers!
