Proposal at Auberge du Soleil | Rutherford, California

You know when you have the best intentions to put time and effort into planning, that of course SOMETHING will come up and throw you for a loop! The plan was to meet for this proposal at Auberge du Soleil in their beautiful front terrace, and photograph a proposal...and thankfully in the end, that IS what happened!

Behind the scenes, however- Greg contacted me (with the help of Lindsey at Ooh La La) and we concocted a plan. He was already scheduled to be in Napa to visit his girlfriend at the tale end of her business trip to California. We agreed that I would drive out there a few days beforehand to scope out the location and help figure out the best spot to pop the question. After my visit, I texted him photos and then made a "map" of where everything was so he knew where to stage it all. I'm telling you...there is a LOT of technical stuff when it comes to organizing something so "simple"!

Later that day, I get an email that there may be a snafu in our plotting, as his girlfriend was informed that she didn't have to go to the Northern Ca portion of her business trip! Thankfully he was able to keep his plans. Then there was the day of, she had to work later than expected, and was not having a great day. She also couldn't figure out why Greg was so nervous and on edge! I mean, they were on vacation in Napa, he should be nice and relaxed?

Don't worry, once he got that ring out of his pocket and on to her finger, he was doing just fine! But like every proposal I have shot, all the stress and timing and checking your phone a million times is worth it when you hear "yes!" (and possibly an "its about time!) I am so honored to document these special moments!

Big thank you to the resort for allowing me to check out their grounds and for offering me water and a crazy hot day! It really is a great destination!