A getaway from the other side of the country led them here, to this moment. And she had no idea it was coming. A Catalina Island proposal is always a good idea—but keeping it a secret? That takes real skill.
Elijah envisioned a perfect picnic with a private view on Catalina—a destination Tiffany had been dreaming of visiting during their California vacation. They planned a few days in Avalon, and Elijah played it cool, planning some “tourist activities” for their first evening on the island.
The picnic was staged at one of my favorite secluded overlooks, arranged by two people (Brian and me) pretending this was our day job—setting up elaborate, romantic picnics for couples in love. Tiffany was told their “private tour guide” (aka, Brian) would pick them up from the hotel in a golf cart and whisk them away to a special picnic spot.
What she didn’t see was the chaos leading up to that serene moment. Between the scramble to secure a golf cart and me sweating bullets trying to get everything in place without cell service, it felt like a race against time. I was panicking. The whole plan was very much an experiment, but somehow, no one was the wiser. Just as I placed the final napkin, I heard Brian’s tour-guide voice drifting down from the road above. I hadn’t even had a second to snap a photo of the picnic before they arrived!
Tiffany and Elijah made their way down to Lee’s Scenic Overlook, delighted by the setting. To Tiffany, it was just a beautiful picnic waiting for them. Brian and I gave them some space, promising to check in a little later.
About 15 minutes had past, I returned and casually asked how everything was going—and if they’d like a photo. “Yes!” they said. I took one. Then I smiled and said, “How about one more, with the bay in the background?”
This was the moment. The instant Elijah had been waiting for. As he shifted to kneel, Tiffany’s expression shifted from joy to disbelief—realizing what was happening.
He knelt. She squealed. And just like that, the tears started flowing.
With an exuberant “Yes!”, they embraced, their joy and love filling the air.
Watching Elijah and Tiffany that evening was such a privilege. The tenderness and care between them, their energy and admiration, the laughter and tight embraces—it was absolutely beautiful. I can’t get over these two.
After the proposal, we took more photos while Brian packed up the picnic. Then, we continued our tour, this time with full transparency. It felt so special to share some of our favorite spots and stories about this magical island. The best part? Hearing more about their journey together and the dreams they have for the future.
Tiffany and Elijah, I don’t think I’ll get over this day anytime soon. I feel so grateful to have been a part of your engagement story—and these photos make my heart sing. Here’s to celebrating you, your love, and the incredible adventure ahead! xoxo
