Several weeks ago now (goodness, time has been flying, hasn’t it?) I had the distinct pleasure of witnessing more than one pivotal and unforgettable moment in the lives of the Sy family. Sam contacted me early in the week and asked if I might be available for a morning maternity shoot at Gas Works Park and the Seattle Arboretum. He, his girlfriend Jen, and their son Insu wanted to create some special images together for their pregnancy announcement. Sam then mentioned that he was hoping to propose to Jen during this session, right in front of the Seattle skyline at Gas Works. Jen had no idea what he was planning.

Of course, what do you think my answer was? If you guessed a loud and clear HECK YES, then you probably know me pretty well ;) A maternity portrait session combined with a surprise proposal? I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday morning.

My nerves were in high gear when we met up, just knowing that in a few minutes Sam was planning on dropping to his knee and professing his love and plans for the future with Jen. To witness this seems almost more intimate even than witnessing actual wedding vows, if you can believe it. Most weddings have an audience of at least a few people. A proposal like this involved just the two of them with an audience of myself, their child who wasn’t paying any attention, and a couple of strangers several yards away. Talk about some pressure!

In the end, it all turned out perfectly. As I went through the series of images from the proposal right there in front of the Seattle skyline, with no one around, and the most perfect natural light, I swear my heart began to skip beats. And as the morning unfolded with us celebrating this new life they are welcoming into their family, I couldn’t help but feel that much more thankful to them for entrusting me to capture these precious moments.

Jen, Sam, and Insu are such a sweet, beautiful family, and I can’t wait to witness them celebrate their growth in matrimony. Baby Sy, we are all so excited to meet you!