As a Chicago wedding and proposal photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories but this one will forever be the most personal. My brother, Ivan, asked me to help plan and photograph his proposal to Desi. And with only one week’s notice, I knew this had to be something unforgettable.
A Proposal for a Professional Hockey Player
Ivan isn’t just my brother, he’s also a professional hockey player. His career has taken him across cities and countries, and soon he and Desi will begin an exciting new chapter together as they move to England, where Ivan will continue playing hockey. With so much change on the horizon, this proposal marked not only the beginning of their engagement, but also the start of an entirely new season of life for them.
A Styled Shoot with a Twist
The plan was clever: Desi, who has modeled for me before, thought she was helping with a styled bridal photoshoot. Little did she know that sunrise by Lake Michigan would be the setting for her own love story.
With the help of my amazing friend @alluringbeautybylorraina, who started hair and makeup at 4 a.m., Desi looked effortlessly elegant. The skies had promised rain, but just as the sun began to rise, we were able to capture before any rain.
A Sunrise Moment to Remember
When Ivan dropped to one knee, everything stopped. Desi’s reaction was pure joy, tears, laughter, and that once-in-a-lifetime moment of saying “yes.” For me, as both sister and photographer, it was emotional to capture not only a proposal but also a milestone that officially welcomed Desi into our family.
Love, Legacy, and New Chapters
What made this proposal even more meaningful was knowing that Ivan and Desi will soon be starting their married life abroad. Moving to England to pursue his hockey career is a huge step, and this proposal was the perfect way to celebrate their past, their present, and the exciting future ahead.
As a luxury Chicago proposal photographer, I know that proposals are about more than just the moment they’re about creating a legacy. These photographs will become the first page of Ivan and Desi’s next chapter, one they’ll carry with them no matter where in the world hockey takes them.
Planning Your Proposal in Chicago
Chicago is a city filled with iconic backdrops: the lakefront at sunrise, rooftop views of the skyline, historic landmarks, and hidden gardens. Whether you’re planning an intimate sunrise proposal or something grand, I love helping couples create an experience that’s both authentic and unforgettable. From scouting the perfect location to ensuring the light and details are just right, I provide full planning support so you can focus on the person in front of you.
If you’re dreaming of a proposal in Chicago, or anywhere your love story takes you, I would love to help bring it to life.
Chicago proposal photography is about more than a beautiful photo; it’s about capturing the start of your forever.
Are you planning a proposal in Chicago?
Let’s make it extraordinary. Reach out to learn more about my proposal photography and how I can help you create a moment that will be remembered forever.
