Let's set the scene:
My client actually found me through TikTok and reached out hoping I could photograph the sweetest surprise proposal for his beautiful significant other at Murray Park. From the start, we knew we wanted everything to feel completely natural so she wouldn’t suspect a thing.
We planned the proposal carefully, down to every little detail. To avoid looking out of place standing alone with a camera, I had my two best friends/assistants pretend to be in the middle of their own photo session nearby while we waited for the couple to arrive. I acted like I was fully focused on photographing my “clients,” casually blending into the park atmosphere while secretly keeping an eye out for them.
The second they arrived; everything shifted into motion. I smoothly moved my focus away from my “subjects” and followed the couple from a distance as they walked toward the gazebo, all while she still had absolutely no idea what was about to happen.
And then came the moment: the nerves, the emotions, the look on her face when she realized what was happening, and ultimately the easiest “yes” ever. Moments like these are exactly why I love photographing surprise proposals in Utah, genuine emotion, intentional planning, and memories that will last forever.
A real surpise proposal story that almost didn't happen.
One of my favorite surprise proposals at Murray Park almost didn’t happen the way we planned... And honestly, it’s the perfect reminder of why preparation matters when choosing a location for any occasion in Utah.
The plan was simple and romantic: he reserved the gazebo at Murray Park for a private sunset proposal surrounded by flowers, candles, and their closest family waiting nearby. Everything was timed perfectly… until we arrived and realized another couple was finishing up a wedding ceremony in the exact same gazebo.
The problem? They hadn’t reserved the space.
planning ahead matters!
Because my client had actually booked the gazebo ahead of time, we were thankfully still able to use it for the proposal, but the timing became very close, emotions were high, and for a minute we genuinely thought the surprise proposal might have to be moved entirely, even though the proposal was supposed to happen ANY minute!
Thankfully everything worked out beautifully, the wedding finished and got cleaned up about 5 minutes before they arrived (which was nerve wracking to say the least), she said yes, and the images turned out incredible. But it was such a good reminder that if you’re planning a proposal, engagement session, wedding, or any special event at a public Utah location, it’s always important to do your due diligence beforehand and make sure nobody else has the space booked.
proposal tips and tricks!
Before choosing a proposal location, make sure to:
- Check if permits or reservations are required
- Reserve gazebos or event spaces in advance
- Research park rules and event policies
- Have a backup location plan just in case
As a Utah proposal photographer, I always help my couples think through these details beforehand, so the moment feels smooth, intentional, and stress-free.
A little planning truly makes all the difference when you’re creating one of the biggest memories of your life.
