Planning a surprise proposal is about balancing secrecy with thoughtfulness. Here&rsquo;s a clear, step-by-step way to do it so it feels meaningful and smooth, not stressful 💍
<hr>
<h2>1. Be 100% Sure About &ldquo;Yes&rdquo;</h2>
A proposal should be a surprise, not the engagement.
<ul>
<li>
You&rsquo;ve talked about marriage, the future, timing, and values
</li>
<li>
You know their stance on rings, public vs private moments, and big life goals
</li>
</ul>
If those aren&rsquo;t clear yet, subtly get clarity before planning anything.
<hr>
<h2>2. Decide the Style of the Proposal</h2>
Ask yourself:
<ul>
<li>
Private &amp; intimate (just the two of you)
</li>
<li>
Semi-private (family or close friends nearby)
</li>
<li>
Public (restaurant, event, landmark)
</li>
</ul>
This should match their personality, not just yours.
<hr>
<h2>3. Choose the Right Moment</h2>
Good proposal moments often involve:
<ul>
<li>
A meaningful date (anniversary, first-date location)
</li>
<li>
A trip or &ldquo;special day&rdquo; they already expect
</li>
<li>
A quiet moment when emotions are high and stress is low
</li>
</ul>
Avoid times when they&rsquo;re overwhelmed (work deadlines, family stress).
<hr>
<h2>4. Pick the Location</h2>
Think sentimental &gt; flashy. Examples:
<ul>
<li>
Where you first met or fell in love
</li>
<li>
A favorite park, beach, hike, or caf&eacute;
</li>
<li>
Home (decorated thoughtfully)
</li>
<li>
Vacation spot (plan it early in the trip so you can relax after)
</li>
</ul>
Have a Plan B if weather or logistics go wrong.
<hr>
<h2>5. The Ring (or Alternative)</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Know their ring preference (metal, stone, size)
</li>
<li>
If unsure, propose with a placeholder ring and design it together later
</li>
<li>
Hide it securely and practice taking it out smoothly
</li>
</ul>
Pro tip: keep the ring in a zipped pocket, not a loose one.
<hr>
<h2>6. Plan the &ldquo;Surprise Cover Story&rdquo;</h2>
You&rsquo;ll need a believable reason:
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;Nice dinner&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Photoshoot for fun&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Day trip&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Celebrating someone else&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
Loop in one trusted person only if necessary (friend, sibling, photographer).
<hr>
<h2>7. Decide What You&rsquo;ll Say</h2>
You don&rsquo;t need a speech&mdash;just sincerity. A simple structure:
<ol>
<li>
What they mean to you
</li>
<li>
Why you want to spend your life with them
</li>
<li>
The question
</li>
</ol>
Practice once or twice so nerves don&rsquo;t erase everything.
<hr>
<h2>8. Capture the Moment (Optional)</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Hidden photographer or videographer
</li>
<li>
Friend discreetly nearby
</li>
<li>
Phone on a tripod if private
</li>
</ul>
Only do this if they&rsquo;d appreciate it.
<hr>
<h2>9. Plan the After-Proposal</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Dinner reservation
</li>
<li>
Celebration with friends/family
</li>
<li>
Champagne at home
</li>
<li>
A quiet walk together
</li>
</ul>
This helps the moment land emotionally.
<hr>
<h2>10. Accept That Perfection Isn&rsquo;t Required</h2>
They won&rsquo;t remember the tiny hiccups. They&rsquo;ll remember:
<ul>
<li>
How you made them feel
</li>
<li>
That it felt like you
</li>
<li>
That it felt intentional and loving
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
If you want, tell me:
<ul>
<li>
Your partner&rsquo;s personality (private/public, sentimental, adventurous)
</li>
<li>
Your budget
</li>
<li>
Timeline
</li>
<li>
Whether you want family involved
</li>
</ul>
I can help you design a specific proposal plan step by step.
&nbsp;
Studio: Lansdowne Lofts <a href="https://www.lansdownelofts.com/">https://www.lansdownelofts.com/</a>
Decor: The Picnic Experience/The Proposal Experience <a href="https://www.proposalexperience.com/">https://www.proposalexperience.com/</a>
Photographer/Videographer: Happy Weddings

How to plan a Surprise Proposal

Couple: Arjun &amp; Devyani
Location: Forest Hill Trail in Rouge River <a href="https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge/activ/sentiers-trails">https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge/activ/sentiers-trails</a>
Photographer: Happy Weddings
&nbsp;
Arjun and Devyani&rsquo;s engagement shoot at Forrest Hill Trail in Rouge River took place on a hot July day, but the summer heat never slowed them down. With plenty of shade and water breaks along the trail, the session stayed relaxed and effortless. Their connection, laughter, and calm energy made the forest setting feel cool&mdash;even on the warmest day.

Forest Hill Trail in Rouge River Engagement Shoot

Couple: Lauren &amp; Barry
Location: RIVERDALE PARK VISTA POINT, BROADVIEW STATION, EATON CENTRE, QUEEN STATION, ST. ANDREW STATION, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, TORONTO CITY HALL, Daphne Restaurant Patio, SPIRITS BAR, DISTILLERY DISTRICT, OLD FLAME BREWERY
Photographer: Happy Weddings

If you made it this far, please check out our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/happyweddingsca/">instagram. </a> Are you planning a wedding around Toronto? I'm happy to help! <a title="Get In Touch!" href="https://www.happyweddings.ca/page/getintouch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Send me a message and let me know how I can help!</a>

All Around Toronto Wedding with Lauren and Barry

Location: Guild Park &amp; Garden <a href="https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/406/index.html">https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/406/index.html</a>
Photographer: Happy Weddings
&nbsp;
It was around a year after I'd had the privilege of capturing Azeez and Alanna's wedding day when I received an unexpected message. The couple, who had been delighted with capturing their wedding, had a new request. It was their upcoming first anniversary, and they wanted me to document this milestone in their journey of love.

If you made it this far, please check out our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/happyweddingsca/">instagram. </a> Are you newly engaged? I'm happy to help chose a location! <a href="https://www.happyweddings.ca/page/getintouch">Send me a message and let me know how I can help!</a>

Guild Park & Garden - Azeez and Alanna 1 Year Anniversary

Here&rsquo;s a clear side-by-side breakdown:
<hr>
<h2>🎥 Wedding Filmmaker (aka Videographer)</h2>
Primary goal: Create a cinematic film that tells the story of your wedding day.
What they focus on:
<ul>
<li>
High-end cameras, lenses, audio gear
</li>
<li>
Carefully composed shots (walking down the aisle, vows, speeches)
</li>
<li>
Storytelling, pacing, emotion
</li>
<li>
Professional color grading and sound design
</li>
</ul>
Deliverables:
<ul>
<li>
A highlight film (usually 3&ndash;10 minutes)
</li>
<li>
Sometimes a longer documentary edit
</li>
<li>
Delivered weeks or months later
</li>
</ul>
Style &amp; vibe:
<ul>
<li>
Polished, cinematic, timeless
</li>
<li>
Feels like a short movie
</li>
</ul>
Best for couples who want: A forever keepsake they&rsquo;ll rewatch on anniversaries ❤️
<hr>
<h2>📱 Wedding Content Creator</h2>
Primary goal: Capture real-time, behind-the-scenes content for social media.
What they focus on:
<ul>
<li>
Phone footage (vertical video)
</li>
<li>
Trends, candid moments, raw emotions
</li>
<li>
Getting content fast and authentically
</li>
<li>
Not interrupting the flow of the day
</li>
</ul>
Deliverables:
<ul>
<li>
Short-form videos (Reels, TikToks, Stories)
</li>
<li>
Behind-the-scenes clips (getting ready, outfit details, reactions)
</li>
<li>
Often delivered same day or within 24&ndash;72 hours
</li>
</ul>
Style &amp; vibe:
<ul>
<li>
Casual, fun, unfiltered, trendy
</li>
<li>
Feels like &ldquo;you had to be there&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
Best for couples who want: Instant memories to share online while the hype is still high
<hr>
<h2>🆚 The Big Differences at a Glance</h2>
<table style="height: 320px; width: 65.5269%;">
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="width: 21.7162%;">Aspect</th>
<th style="width: 36.9979%;">Filmmaker</th>
<th style="width: 40.5369%;">Content Creator</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 21.7162%;">Camera</td>
<td style="width: 36.9979%;">Professional cameras</td>
<td style="width: 40.5369%;">Smartphone</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 21.7162%;">Format</td>
<td style="width: 36.9979%;">Horizontal, cinematic</td>
<td style="width: 40.5369%;">Vertical, social-first</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 21.7162%;">Turnaround</td>
<td style="width: 36.9979%;">Weeks/months</td>
<td style="width: 40.5369%;">Same day or a few days</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 21.7162%;">Editing style</td>
<td style="width: 36.9979%;">Polished &amp; cinematic</td>
<td style="width: 40.5369%;">Quick, trendy, raw</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 21.7162%;">Purpose</td>
<td style="width: 36.9979%;">Long-term keepsake</td>
<td style="width: 40.5369%;">Immediate sharing</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<hr>
<h2>🤝 Do You Need Both?</h2>
A lot of modern couples hire both:
<ul>
<li>
🎥 Filmmaker = the timeless heirloom
</li>
<li>
📱 Content creator = instant, fun memories
</li>
</ul>
They don&rsquo;t replace each other&mdash;they complement each other.
If you want, tell me whether you&rsquo;re:
<ul>
<li>
planning a wedding
</li>
<li>
thinking of becoming one of these
</li>
<li>
or trying to choose which to hire
</li>
</ul>
I can tailor advice exactly to your situation

Wedding Videographer vs. Content Creator

Organizing family photos at a wedding goes much smoother with a little planning. Here&rsquo;s a proven, stress-saving approach that photographers and planners swear by:
<hr>
<h2>1. Make a &ldquo;Must-Have&rdquo; Family Shot List</h2>
Create a concise list before the wedding and share it with:
<ul>
<li>
Your photographer
</li>
<li>
Wedding planner / coordinator
</li>
<li>
A trusted family member
</li>
</ul>
Group logically, starting big and narrowing down:
<ul>
<li>
Couple + both immediate families
</li>
<li>
Couple + bride&rsquo;s parents
</li>
<li>
Couple + groom&rsquo;s parents
</li>
<li>
Couple + siblings
</li>
<li>
Couple + grandparents
</li>
<li>
Couple + extended family (if desired)
</li>
</ul>
📌 Tip: Avoid listing every possible combination&mdash;stick to meaningful groupings.
<hr>
<h2>2. Appoint a &ldquo;Family Wrangler&rdquo;</h2>
Choose one assertive, organized person from each side of the family who:
<ul>
<li>
Knows everyone by face and name
</li>
<li>
Can quickly gather people for the next photo
</li>
<li>
Isn&rsquo;t in most of the photos themselves
</li>
</ul>
This saves tons of time and prevents awkward shouting by the photographer.
<hr>
<h2>3. Schedule Photos Right After the Ceremony</h2>
The easiest window is:
<ul>
<li>
Immediately after the ceremony
</li>
<li>
Everyone is already present and dressed
</li>
<li>
Emotions are high (great expressions!)
</li>
<li>
Before guests drift to cocktail hour
</li>
</ul>
⏱ Typical time needed:
<ul>
<li>
10&ndash;15 people total &rarr; ~15 minutes
</li>
<li>
Larger families &rarr; ~20&ndash;30 minutes
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>4. Keep the Location Close &amp; Simple</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Choose one nearby spot with good light
</li>
<li>
Minimal walking = fewer people wandering off
</li>
<li>
Let the photographer pre-scout the area
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>5. Communicate Expectations Ahead of Time</h2>
Let family members know:
<ul>
<li>
When photos are happening
</li>
<li>
Roughly how long they&rsquo;ll take
</li>
<li>
That their cooperation helps the couple enjoy the day
</li>
</ul>
A quick mention in a family group chat works wonders.
<hr>
<h2>6. Have a &ldquo;Missing Person&rdquo; Plan</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Build in 5 extra minutes
</li>
<li>
Know where cocktail hour is
</li>
<li>
Wranglers should do a quick sweep before each shot
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>7. Consider Doing Some Photos Before the Ceremony</h2>
If you&rsquo;re doing a first look, you can:
<ul>
<li>
Photograph immediate family beforehand
</li>
<li>
Reduce post-ceremony time
</li>
<li>
Enjoy cocktail hour more
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>Sample Simple Family Photo Order</h2>
<ol>
<li>
Couple + both parents
</li>
<li>
Couple + bride&rsquo;s immediate family
</li>
<li>
Couple + groom&rsquo;s immediate family
</li>
<li>
Couple + siblings
</li>
<li>
Couple + grandparents
</li>
<li>
Couple + extended family (optional)
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
If you want, I can:
<ul>
<li>
Create a custom photo list based on your family size
</li>
<li>
Help you decide pre- vs post-ceremony photos
</li>
<li>
Share a one-page checklist you can give your photographer
</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Just tell me a bit about your family setup 😊

How to plan the Family Photo Session

We were so happy with our wedding photography and videography!! Chris went above and beyond for our engagement photos and on our wedding day! He was extremely professional and responsive with any questions we had.

Kennedey & Chris - 8 Hour Photo + Video

Chris is incredibly talented, made us feel super comfortable, and worked closely with us to achieve the exact results we hoped for. We worked with Chris for our engagement and wedding day, and he was 10/10 for both. We presented some really specific ideas, which included public transit! and Chris nailed them all, with a smile. Everyone at our wedding commented on how friendly and fun he made the photography; he really blended in.
We had such an amazing experience with Chris and would absolutely recommend him.

Lauren & Barry - 8 hour wedding photography

We highly recommend Chris! He is incredibly talented. We’ve trusted him to capture both our birthday photos and our wedding, and the results have always exceeded our expectations. We appreciate his quick turnaround and easy communication. Thanks so much Chris!

Rosa & Jake - 10 hour photo + video

“Chris was an absolute gem. He captured both photo and video beautifully, and the results truly speak for themselves. Watching our film brought us to tears, and the photos perfectly reflect our love and the feeling of the day. He was professional, detail-oriented, and somehow everywhere without being noticed. We couldn’t be happier and would recommend him without hesitation.”

Safia & Daniel— 6 hour Hybrid Photo + Video

Chris shot our engagement photos this weekend and it was a great experience! Neither my partner nor I are naturals in front of a camera, but we were instantly comfortable with Chris and the photos he took make us look so good. I highly recommend for any photography needs.

Jackie & Mitch - 1 hour engagement photography

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The 8-Hour Wedding Photography Package offers full, relaxed coverage of your day — from getting ready through the ceremony and into the reception. This package is ideal for weddings where you want space for moments to unfold naturally, without feeling rushed. The focus is on real emotion, connection, and the details that shape the day as it happens. You’ll receive a carefully curated gallery of high-resolution images, documenting the flow and atmosphere of your celebration in a natural, documentary style. “Chris created a comfortable environment and captured natural, joyful moments throughout our day.” — Matthew &amp; Angel

Wedding Photography (8 Hours)

Capture the full story of your wedding day with my 8-hour hybrid photo and video package. This comprehensive coverage allows me to document your day seamlessly, from getting ready through the ceremony and into the reception. I’ll focus on both still moments and movement — the emotions, candid interactions, and meaningful details that make your wedding uniquely yours. You’ll receive a carefully curated collection of high-resolution photographs alongside a beautifully edited highlight film, together telling your story in a complete and cohesive way. If you’re looking for photography and videography that work together effortlessly, this package offers a balanced and timeless approach.

Wedding Photo + Video Hybrid (8 Hours)

(One Photographer + One Videographer) Experience the full story of your wedding day with my 8-hour photo and video package. With one dedicated photographer and one dedicated videographer, your day is captured from multiple perspectives without compromise. From getting ready through the ceremony and into the reception, we’ll document heartfelt moments, candid interactions, and the meaningful details that make your wedding uniquely yours. You’ll receive a carefully curated collection of high-resolution photographs along with a cinematic highlight film that tells your story seamlessly. With multi-camera coverage, professional editing, and color grading, your final images and film become a timeless record of your celebration. Optional add-ons available:<ul><li>Audio of vows</li><li>Social media reels</li><li>Drone footage</li><li>Longer Edit</li></ul> We highly recommend Chris! He is incredibly talented. We’ve trusted him to capture both our birthday photos and our wedding, and the results have always exceeded our expectations. We appreciate his quick turnaround and easy communication. Thanks so much Chris!-Rosa T.

Wedding Photography + Videography (8 Hours)

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All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

neutral C,B

There&rsquo;s something magical about sunsets by the water&mdash;and Kylie and Lovell&rsquo;s engagement shoot at Polson Pier was no exception. With the Toronto skyline glowing behind them and Lake Ontario reflecting every golden hue, this session was full of warmth, laughter, and love&hellip; even if the breeze said otherwise!
&nbsp;
Though the evening brought a slight chill (a given when you're that close to the water), Kylie and Lovell came prepared&mdash;with matching outfits that were both stylish and cozy. Their coordinated look not only popped against the city backdrop but perfectly captured their fun, laid-back vibe.
&nbsp;
Despite the crowd that often flocks to Polson Pier during golden hour, we managed to find quiet little moments that made the shoot feel incredibly intimate. From loving hugs to quiet hand-holding as the sun dipped lower, every shot spoke to the genuine connection these two share.
&nbsp;
And let&rsquo;s not forget their shared love for bubble tea! Mid-shoot, they pulled out their favorite Chatime drinks&mdash;an unexpected but adorable detail that added a playful and personal touch to their gallery. Because what&rsquo;s better than toasting to forever with your person&hellip; and your favorite boba?
&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s to Kylie and Lovell&mdash;proof that love, laughter, and a little bit of bubble tea make for a perfect engagement session. 🌇💛🥤
<hr>
Want your love story captured at golden hour? Reach out to book your own sunset session!

Golden Hour Love: Kylie & Lovell’s Sunset Engagement Shoot at Polson Pier

On a cold winter in Richmond Hill, Andrew and Kebre, along with their charming children, were all set for a day full of capturing memories at the Glass House Studios. Clad in matching outfits, the family's sense of unity was beautifully reflected in their choice of attire. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation as they prepared for both a family photo shoot and an engagement shoot. The spacious studio was bathed in natural light, illuminating every corner, and creating an ambiance that was just perfect for capturing candid moments but I chose to use my off camera flash for added. The kids, despite their young age, showed remarkable patience and discipline. They waited quietly, their eyes filled with curiosity, as their parents took center stage for their engagement shoot. Andrew and Kebre, a picture-perfect couple, exuded love and warmth. They posed effortlessly, their smiles genuine and eyes sparkling with joy. I watched from behind the lens, my heart filled with admiration for this beautiful family. Their love for each other was palpable and the energy in the room was absolutely contagious. After the engagement shoot, it was time for the family photos. The children, who had been so patient, were now bubbling with excitement. Their infectious laughter and innocent antics added a lively charm to the pictures. The family portraits came out beautifully, each one a testament to the love and bond they shared. Reflecting on the day's shoot, I felt a sense of fulfillment. As a photographer, my aim is to capture not just images, but emotions and stories. Andrew, Kebre, and their family had given me the perfect opportunity to do just that. Their warmth, love, and unity were beautifully reflected in every photograph. Looking at the final pictures, I was reminded of why I fell in love with photography. It's not just about capturing moments, it's about immortalizing emotions and creating memories that will be cherished forever. This family shoot was a beautiful reminder of the magic that love and unity can create, a magic that I am fortunate to witness and capture through my lens. As I continue on my journey as a photographer, I look forward to more such opportunities. Opportunities to witness love, to capture joy, and to create memories. And in doing so, I hope to grow, to learn, and to deliver the best for my clients, just as I did with Andrew, Kebre, and their lovely children.

The Glass House Studio

DSC_9313.jpg

Kirsten + Matthew

A glimpse into a wedding film — explore more on the Film page.

You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me. 

"With a decade of diverse photography experience spanning weddings, events, sports, and product photography, I've cultivated a deep understanding of visual storytelling and a keen eye for capturing the essence of every moment. My journey in photography has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a genuine enjoyment of working with couples, and a commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences for my clients.

Specializing primarily in weddings, I've had the privilege of documenting the love stories of countless couples, capturing the joy, emotion, and beauty of their special day. There's something truly magical about witnessing the union of two souls and immortalizing those cherished moments through my lens. I take immense pride in my ability to forge genuine connections with my clients, ensuring that their personalities and unique love story shine through in every photograph.

In addition to weddings, I've thrived in the fast-paced environments of events and sports photography, where I've honed my skills in capturing fleeting moments and adrenaline-filled action. Whether it's a corporate conference, a sporting event, or a community celebration, I approach each assignment with enthusiasm and a commitment to delivering captivating imagery that tells a compelling story.

My expertise also extends to product photography, where I've collaborated with businesses of all sizes to showcase their products in the best possible light. From sleek and professional product shots to dynamic lifestyle imagery, I excel in creating visuals that captivate audiences and drive engagement.

At the core of my approach to photography is a dedication to continuous improvement and growth. I follow the Kaizen philosophy, embracing the mindset of constant refinement and incremental progress in my pursuit to be better every day. This philosophy fuels my eagerness to learn, experiment, and push the boundaries of my creativity, ensuring that I always deliver the highest quality work for my clients.

As I reflect on the past decade of my photography journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I've had to connect with people, capture meaningful moments, and create lasting memories. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue pushing myself, refining my craft, and exceeding the expectations of my clients with each new project."