When Elizabeth reached out to me about photographing her sister’s upcoming surprise proposal I thought…wow, these are some sister goals! She and her future brother in law David were coordinating their efforts to make the evening extra special.

They hadn’t settled on a location just yet, so during our planning process we talked about the kinds of things that Karla, the bride-to-be, likes. I discovered she likes historical places, stately mansions and gazebos, and they were willing to drive anywhere. They also wanted to ensure they’d have permission to set up some florals and decor at the location.

Based on those parameters I began doing the research to create their customized location ideas list. Once I sent that off they immediately picked the bandstand in Sam Houston Park. They were able to secure the minimum 2 hour rental* on a Friday evening.

With the proposal location booked, Elizabeth worked on the decor and David worked on the post proposal event. He planned a celebratory dinner for them, but little would Karla know, both their families would be there waiting to welcome and congratulate them on their big news!

Sam Houston Park Proposal

When I arrived at Sam Houston Park, Karla’s sisters were setting up. They had a gold circle arch, floral installments, candles, twinkle lights…the works! The floral pieces were so gorgeous I asked Elizabeth where she got them and I was floored to find out she designed and made them herself! We finished setting everything up just in time for David and Karla’s arrival.

As we hid behind St. John Church, they meandered the pathway up to the bandstand. This is when David entered into rockstar proposer status. During our planning I had sent him my top tips for getting the best proposal photos and making it extra special for his partner AND HE NAILED IT!!! You guys, he even asked me afterwards if he did okay and I was like…I wish a had a video of it to show every single proposal client! LOL!

He got down on his knee and Karla went through all the emotions of seeing him, registering that this is really happening right now, being so excited and overwhelmed with joy and, of course, that big glorious YES!

After they had a moment to gather themselves, Karla’s sisters came rushing out to congratulate them. After a round of hugs, we got just a few more photos before David had to usher Karla off to her next surprise!

Something I really loved about how they planned this out is that it gave the couple some privacy during the actual proposal so they had the space to experience it without the pressure of an audience AND they still got to share it with their families right after at their dinner celebration. It’s really the best of both worlds.

*At the time of publication, the rental fees for the bandstand at Sam Houston Park are as follows:
$250 (2-hour rental) Mon. – Fri.
$450 (2-hour rental) Sat. – Sun.
To inquire about rental availability, contact The Heritage Society.

Want more proposal ideas? Check out this pineapple themed surprise proposal!