What a way to celebrate. Alden and Dene had a picture take on Crystal Pier in Pacific beach a few years ago that was featured in the New York Times, and Alden wanted to recreate the same photo, only this time he would be on one knee. When Alden contacted us about his plan we were so excited, being a part of a surprise proposal is always the best getting to watch the sheer shock on one’s face. Take a look at Alden and Dene’s surprise proposal in Pacific Beach.

Give us all the details about the proposal. How and where did it happen? Was it a surprise? What was the planning process?

A: The proposal was a complete surprise. His parents were in town and wanted to take us out to dinner at a restaurant on the beach in San Diego before they left. Pulling up to the restaurant, his parents told us that they would park the car and that we would just meet them in the restaurant. We used to walk Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach all the time, so I didn't think anything of it when he casually suggested that we go check out the surfers at the end. We got to the end of the pier and I could feel his heart beating quickly and I even asked him if he was ok! When we turned around to go back, I saw him reach into his pocket. When I realized what was happening I immediately started crying.

We’re all about the bling… Tell us all about that wedding ring!

A: The ring is just perfect for me. Super simple, elegant, and timeless. It’s a brilliant, round solitaire with a gold band and four sterling silver prongs. The smaller band and simple setting really let the diamond shine! It’s just what I wanted - he did such a good job.

Let’s start at the beginning. How did you two first meet?

A: We met the old fashion way - at a bar. It was a ladies night out with a few of my friends. As soon as we walked in, I saw this guy with a big smile and a bushy mustache walk up to our group and we just hit it off. We shared a beer at the bar, flirting and laughing, and he took my hand and taught me how to two-step. Towards the end of the night we parted ways and I thought that might be it. A couple of minutes later, and with a little encouragement from a friend, he walked up to me, planted his feet, and asked for my phone number. He asked for a date first thing the next morning (so much for waiting, right?) and I knew there was just something about mustache man that I couldn't pass up.

Are you excited to start planning your wedding day? Do you have any ideas in mind yet?

A: Yes! We planning to get married back East at his family’s farmhouse on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake. The only thing we have planned so far is a crab feast for the rehearsal dinner but we can’t stop talking about it!

How did you know your partner was the one? When did you first know this in your relationship? (these may often be the same moment, but aren’t always)

A: A couple of months into dating we were very casually sitting and talking around the fire in his backyard and it just sort of hit me. It’s hard to explain exactly how I knew, but I looked across the flames and knew he was the one.

Tell us some things that you both value in your time together and about your relationship. (example: pushing each other to new limits, love to travel, huge comic book fans, foodies, etc.) What makes your relationship unique?

A: We share the same love for adventure, time with friends and family, a similar taste in music, and engaging conversation. Although we share a lot of the same values, I like to think that we push each-other to be the best version of ourselves. We consistently challenge each-other with a different perspective or a new personal goal, but at the end of the day we support each other because we know that we are on the same team.

About us: Hi! We are Andy and Brittney, local San Diego wedding photographers! It is such an awesome experience being able to meet some incredible people and help capture wedding photos that will last the rest of their lives. Growing up in Southern California we have had the opportunity to visit the most beautiful scenery, and now are blessed to capture weddings in that same scenery we grew up exploring. From elopements in the mountains to private beach weddings, we have covered some of the most iconic spots in California. If you are planning to elope and looking for a California wedding photographer, we would love to talk details and see how we can help document such an important day in your lives.

Planning your engagement? A proposal is mostly always a surprise to the person on the receiving end, but it is not always captured. If you are looking for an engagement photographer to help capture your surprise proposal we would love to be a part of your plan! weather you are visiting San Diego or live here permanently we would love to hear your thoughts on where you are thinking of popping the question. Up and down the coast of San Diego you really can’t go wrong with a location, From Carlsbad to the border there is nothing short of endless beauty with some of the best beaches in California. If you are thinking of not only getting engaged but planning a beach wedding in San Diego feel free to hit us up about some of our favorite locations!