James and Maria | McCrillis Gardens Maryland Surprise Proposal

In March 2021 James inquired about having his surprise proposal photographed. His plan was to take his girlfriend, Maria, to the park where they had their second date, years ago, with the excuse his family was having a photoshoot to celebrate a baptism.

As soon as I got the first email from James I knew it was going to be sweet. But little did I know their session would lead me to tears.

After weeks planning every detail of the biggest surprise Maria has ever had, I was ready. Hiding around the corner, waiting for them to enter the gate and set down the towel.

So on a warm summer Sunday, after church, James got down on one knee and popped the question. Surrounded by beautiful nature (and maybe a few too many cicadas) Maria couldn’t hold in her tears as she hugged, jumped and kissed her fiancé saying YES!

After their hearts got acclimated, we walked around the park, capturing all the happiest smiles. They talked about the future, laughed endlessly as James unfolded all this plans to Maria and then left to celebrate the good news with their families.

Cheers to a lifetime of moments that feels like that summer afternoon.