I cannot believe I get to do this for a living.

Getting to watch and photograph as two amazing people get engaged is really the best thing ever. And I’m so lucky that Carson just happened to find me on Pinterest while searching for photographers for his sunset proposal to Sarah at the University of Illinois Arboretum in Champaign, IL! 

A Magical Proposal at the University of Illinois Arboretum

Carson and Sarah met while in college at North Carolina. Carson is actually from NC while Sarah is from Champaign, IL. So while Sarah was back home in Champaign visiting family, Carson wanted to surprise her with a proposal at the University of Illinois Arboretum, and I of course was ALL in for capturing this for them!

Carson and his parents flew in from NC, and they immediately drove to the arboretum where we walked through the garden and picked a spot. Right before sunset, we patiently waited for Sarah to walk through with her sister.

As the eagle was landing, she saw Carson, and ran into his arms. I worked my way to another spot and that’s when he got down on one knee and popped the question!

After the proposal and THE most excited reaction from Sarah, we snapped some photos with Carson’s parents and Sarah’s sister, then bounced off to grab some portraits of just the two of them in the University of Illinois’ Arboretum.

Portraits in the Style of Pride and Prejudice

Sarah and Carson had shared that they both love Pride and Prejudice. I mean how could you not? It’s an amazing book AND movie! Well the light we had while at the University of Illinois Arboretum was perfect not only for the proposal, but also some spot on Pride and Prejudice inspired vibes.

The dreamy, cinematic feel captures their undeniable draw to each other perfectly! They danced, twirled, cuddled and laughed through the photos. And Sarah’s vintage inspired three stone ring fell right into sync with their story of the day. 

I’m so happy Carson found me and trusted me with these precious memories of his proposal to Sarah at the University of Illinois Arboretum. I can’t wait to see what their next adventure brings!

“You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love… I love…I love you.” – Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice

If you’re looking for more surprise proposal inspiration, check out this blog.

Or if you already have an idea, reach out – let’s tell your story!