Garden of the gods SURPRISE PROPOSAL
One of the biggest joys of being a photographer is having the opportunity to document your loved ones’ biggest, most special moments. It’s no secret that I am absolutely a sap sometimes, especially when it comes to those nearest to my heart. It was truly the sweetest honor to photograph my youngest brother’s Garden of the Gods surprise proposal to my future sister-in-law.
Now when I say that Nils is my youngest brother, I mean he is the baby of the family (despite him towering over all of us). We are 8 years apart, and I remember changing his diapers, and always singing “Nilsy has the cutest little baby buns”. Do I remind him of this every chance I get to this day? Yes. Watching Nils grow into the wonderful young man he is today has been such an unexpected joy in my life. He truly inspires me with his dedication and passion for Jesus, life, and fitness. Now, as I’ve watched Nils find the love of his life, I couldn’t be any more proud to be his big sister. Sierra is the sweetest addition to our family, and I am so excited to call her my sister.
Surprise Proposal in Colorado Springs
Not too long ago, Nils called me and told me he planned to propose to Sierra. After calming down my excitement and wiping the tears from my eyes, he said he wanted to recreate their first date. Naturally (as the big sister), I asked him why he didn’t think of coming to Colorado for me to photograph it! Nils knew it would be important for Sierra’s mom (Lisa) to be a part of the proposal, so I encouraged him to chat with her to see if she would be willing to surprise Sierra in Colorado Springs. Much to our excitement, she agreed!
Like the good ole actress and secret-keeper I am, I nonchalantly asked Sierra and Nils if they’d come visit us in Colorado Springs so we could get some more mountain content. In case you’re new to the blog, Chuck and I are still fairly new to the Colorado Springs area and could always use more content. It seriously was the perfect plan to get these two cuties to come visit us. The next week was just spent scouting locations around Colorado Springs before landing on the Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak looming in the background.
When the big day finally arrived, of course Nils and Sierra were modeling their hearts out. They are literally naturals in front of my camera, so I truly don’t think that Sierra ever thought anything was suspicious. I asked Nils and Sierra to stand back to back, and when they separated, Nils was down on one knee; Sierra was shocked! After the quickest “YES!”, Lisa popped out from behind a rock and had Sierra’s younger sister on FaceTime. It was just the sweetest, most joyful moment to witness.
Colorado Spring Engagement | Chuck & Shiloh
Documenting Nils and Sierra’s Garden of the Gods surprise proposal was the biggest honor. Not only did I get the chance to photograph just my youngest brother’s proposal, but I’ve documented all of my brothers’ proposals to their wives. The bond that is shared between my siblings is something I will never take for granted. And having so many beautiful ladies that I’m now able to call my sister is equally incredible. I’m so proud of the men my brothers have become, and I can’t wait to watch each of their families grow and move closer to the Lord.
Snag a sneak peek of Nils and Sierra’s engagement photos (before they hit the blog) HERE on our Insta (@chuckandshiloh). Check out our recent musings and resources below for inspiration, elopement tips, and more.
