Popping the question is one of the biggest moments in a person’s life, and one most couples don’t ever want to forget. While I’m a fan of proposals in any form – spontaneous, semi-planned, meticulously planned surprises – I LOVE when I’m brought in to capture that moment! Luke reached out to me this April because he was planning to propose to his lovely girlfriend (now fiancée), Ashley. Ashley’s only request for the proposal was that a professional photographer be there. I’ve got to give Ashley props on communicating that desire to Luke. While proposal photography has become popular in recent years, hiring a photographer may not immediately come to mind, especially with so many other details to consider and plan!

Luke and Ashley’s Love Story

Luke and Ashley are the sweetest couple. One of the things they have in common is that they both love the other’s caring, selfless natures. Ashley says “[Luke has] a heart of gold… He would do just about anything for the people he loves and I LOVE that about him.” Luke says that what he most loves about Ashley is “her selflessness. She has the purest heart.” How sweet is that?

The couple met when they worked together on a group project as students at Radford University. Luke openly admits that he was instantly attracted to Ashley, so he asked her out a few times before she finally said yes. Once they went out on their first date, the rest was history!

The Proposal Story from Luke’s Point of View

Q: Tell me about how you kept the proposal a secret! What was the cover story you gave Ashley to make sure she didn’t figure out your real plans?

A: It was tough. Her friends and I worked together and told her we were going to take a group trip to Charlottesville for a bridal expo (her friend is also getting married) and hit a bunch of the wineries/breweries in the area.

Q: Did any problems arise with your plan?

A: Yes, my original plans fell through, so I had to come up with a plan b in a matter of just two weeks.

Q: How were you feeling leading up to the big moment?

A: I’m not sure because I blacked out and forgot everything. But I knew I was nervous…. my first words were, “well Ashley, the time has come, haha.” The speech I had planned went down the drain.

Q: What’s your favorite part of your proposal story?

A: Getting to finally put the ring I picked out on Ashley’s finger and seeing her face light up.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about being married?

A: Knowing we are officially starting our future together.

The Proposal Story from Ashley’s Point of View

Q: Any idea Luke was going to propose or was it a complete surprise?

A: I had an inkling that he might propose. Especially when I saw how nervous he was a few minutes before the proposal, I was pretty sure. But it still felt like a complete surprise in the moment.

Q: What were you thinking and feeling as Luke popped the question?

A: ALL the emotions. Of course I cried happy tears. I felt like the luckiest girl ever!

Q: What’s your favorite part of your proposal story?

A: Watching Luke get down on one knee. I will never, ever forget that moment.

Praise from the Couple

“Emily did an amazing job and gave us pictures we can always look back on.“- Luke

“Emily was amazing and made us feel so comfortable during our session and also made it so much fun for us. I am so grateful Luke hired a photographer!“- Ashley

It was truly an honor to be a part of Luke and Ashley’s love story!

Are you a Richmond local thinking of proposing? Contact EmmiClaire Photography to chat about how I can help memorialize your proposal in authentic, unforgettable images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!