Sometimes you know exactly what you want your proposal to look like, even if you don’t know exactly where it should happen. That was the case for Casey. He knew he wanted to propose to Paige somewhere overlooking the ocean. He pictured a cliffside setting with greenery, incredible coastal views, and enough privacy that the moment still felt like it belonged to the two of them.
Casey found me on Google after seeing proposals I’d photographed at Terranea. He and Paige were coming to Southern California to visit his parents in Manhattan Beach, so proposing along the coast made perfect sense. But as he got closer to the proposal, he started reconsidering the location. His original plan was Terranea Resort. And while Terranea is beautiful, Casey was worried it would be more crowded than he wanted.
So he reached out and asked if I had other ideas (and of course, I did!) This is one of the reasons I always ask couples what they’re actually looking for in a proposal location. Sometimes the priority is privacy. Sometimes it’s an ocean view, easy access, greenery, or a specific type of scenery.
Casey still wanted the cliffs and Pacific Ocean. He just wanted somewhere that would typically feel a little quieter. I showed him a spot I’d photographed before on the cliffs in Palos Verdes, and he loved it. The grassy coastal bluffs overlook the ocean and a small cove below. On a clear day, the views seem to stretch for miles. And it gave him exactly the setting he’d been picturing.
A Cliffside Proposal in Palos Verdes
When the day arrived, everything came together beautifully. Casey brought Paige out to the cliffs, where he proposed overlooking the Southern California coastline. He chose a pear-shaped diamond ring, and Paige wore the Seren Embellished Georgette Gown by House of CB. Against the greenery and ocean, it photographed beautifully.
After she said yes, we stayed along the cliffs for their engagement portraits. That gave them time to actually enjoy the moment while we took advantage of the coastal scenery. And this wasn’t the last time I’ll have these two in front of my camera. They loved their proposal photos so much that they hired me to photograph their wedding next year!
What Matters Most in a Proposal Location?
There’s no single “best” place to propose in Los Angeles. Before choosing a location, think about what matters most to you.
Do you want complete privacy or are you comfortable having people nearby? Do you picture the ocean, mountains, city skyline, or something more architectural? Are you willing to hike, or do you need somewhere easily accessible? Those details can narrow down your options quickly.
If there’s already a place that’s important to your relationship, start there. I recently photographed a Griffith Park proposal where the groom chose the exact park where he and his fiancée first met. If you’re starting completely from scratch, my guide to the best ocean-view proposal spots in Los Angeles is a great place to begin.
And if you find a location you love but realize it isn’t quite right, don’t panic. Tell me what you liked about it in the first place. Chances are, I know another Los Angeles proposal location that gives you a similar feeling while better fitting what you actually need.
Planning a Proposal in Los Angeles?
If you know how you want your proposal to feel but have no idea where to do it, I can help. I’ve photographed proposals throughout Los Angeles and know how much the right location, timing, light, and level of privacy can change the experience. Once we find the right spot, you can focus on the part that matters most: asking the question. Just reach out here!
