A Surprise Proposal at Castle Hill Inn Lighthouse | Newport, RI | Ava & Cole

Ava and Cole have been together since high school. They made the trip up from Pennsylvania for their very first visit to New England. Ava had no idea this trip was about to become a lot bigger.

Cole got down on one knee at the Castle Hill Inn Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. Ava’s face said it all. She truly did not see this coming.

We got a gorgeous day for it. So of course we stayed for a mini engagement session right after. When the light looks like that and you are both still on an engagement high, you do not waste it.

So happy for you two. High school sweethearts making it official on the Newport coastline.

How I Planned the Proposal With Cole

I worked with Cole for a few weeks before the trip. First, I told him to contact Castle Hill Inn ahead of time. I wanted to be sure no wedding or event was planned at the lighthouse that day. They told him all clear.

I also gave him a parking warning. The last time I went, the inn sent me to a state park down the street. From there, you walk. It is not too far. But if Ava wore heels or a dress, that walk could be annoying.

I always plan every detail with the person proposing. That way the surprise stays safe, and nothing catches us off guard.

Behind the Scenes of the Proposal

I got there nice and early. Sure enough, they had me park at the state park and walk. I made the trek up to the lighthouse and waited.

I always share my location with whoever is proposing. That lets me see where they are. I watched their dot reach the entrance and stop at the booth.

My heart was racing. I could not tell if they would be let in or told to turn around and park where I did. It was taking a while. Finally, they moved through. Yes!

Things would go fast now. I got into position and watched them walk up the trail.

Of course, a family showed up right before them. They were not in the way. But one woman was setting up a tripod for a family photo. I could see her watching Ava and Cole. I think she knew what was about to happen. She looked like she might try to capture it.

Then Cole got down on one knee, and I went in, snapping away. The woman noticed what was happening and did not take any photos. Luckily for us.

The Mini Engagement Session After the Proposal

Right after the proposal, we put that great light to use. Ava and Cole were still floating, and that feeling shows in the photos.

This is why I love adding a short engagement session to a proposal. You are already dressed up and happy. The nerves are gone. You get to enjoy the moment and have photos to remember it.

Ava and Cole came to New England for their first time ever. They left engaged. It was such a special day to be part of.

The weather gave us a beautiful day. The lighthouse gave us a stunning setting. And Ava’s face made it clear she had no clue.

If you are planning a proposal in Newport, Rhode Island, I would love to help. That goes for anywhere along the New England coast too. Let’s capture it so you can relive it for years.