This was a special moment that they’ll never forget and neither will I. Michael is both a friend and talented photographer who regularly captures weddings with me. It was an honor when he asked me if I would be willing to capture the moment he asked Sarah to marry him.

They have been together for quite some time but this specific moment was a complete surprise to Sarah. A weekend getaway Christmas gift from Sarah’s mother created the perfect ruse for Michael to finally pop the question. Last month, Michael and I ventured up to the area for a half-day of skiing before going over to Devil’s Thumb Ranch to scout out the area. We walked around the property, found the perfect spot and I even used a sun calculator app to know exactly where the sun would be at 6pm as he got down on one knee. Michael promised me he’d hit his mark despite the emotional moment, and he did.

I’m not normally nervous capturing proposals or weddings but a few weeks back I had a nightmare that I had missed “the” moment by being late to my spot on the property. Amy heard me grumbling next to her in bed and woke me up to assure me it was just a dream. On the day of the proposal, I was overly prepared with gear and arrived in the parking lot more than an hour in advance. Michael snuck me a text while Sarah was getting ready to let me know they would be a few minutes early. Thankfully I had just enough wifi reception in the service-less parking lot to receive the message. I confirmed, then hid behind the large snowcat that grooms the nordic trails and watched as they walked out the the building a few minutes later. Michael was incredibly smooth, speaking to Sarah before getting down on one knee.

Of course, she said yes.

Emotions overflowed and the adrenaline kept us all warm in the chilly temperatures. After a few photos, I joined them inside for a quick cocktail to celebrate before sending them off to their dinner reservation. It’s a treat to witness a moment like this and even more special to document it for a friend. I couldn’t be happier for them.

Congratulations you two!!

Sarah reacts as Michael proposes during the winter at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, Colorado
Michael proposes to Sarah at during the winter at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, Colorado
Sarah reacts as Michael kisses her head after their engagement at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Michael picks up Sarah after he proposed on the nordic track at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash
Sarah and Michael admire the engagement ring after their snowy proposal
Michael and Sarah walk in the snow after getting engaged at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Michael and Sarah share a laugh by the fire after getting engaged in March at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Michael and Sarah share a laugh
Michael and Sarah toast their engagement at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Michael and Sarah share a kiss in the bar at Devil’s Thumb Ranch during twilight