There are few places as timeless and enchanting as the House of Seven Gables in Salem, Massachusetts. With its rich history and picturesque grounds, it served as the perfect backdrop for one of the most heartwarming proposals I’ve had the pleasure of capturing.

A couple poses together against vibrant red autumn foliage for their engagement photos.

Adrian’s plan was as thoughtful as it was romantic. We started by heading to the charming garden area of the House of Seven Gables, near the Fountain of Wishes. The garden, filled with colorful blooms and a sense of serenity, set the tone for what was about to unfold. As the couple stood by the fountain, Adrian asked Corey to turn away, facing the fountain, and to close her eyes, trusting him in that special moment. While she did, Adrian knelt down with a sparkling ring in hand—ready for the big reveal.

An emotional reaction during a surprise proposal outside a traditional gray house.
A proposal scene with someone kneeling on brick pavement in front of a stone wall.
A surprise proposal moment captured outside a gray house with traditional architecture.
A marriage proposal taking place in front of a classic New England style home.
A person kneeling during a marriage proposal on brick pavement beside stone wall.
A couple embraces warmly in front of a grey house with bushes.
An emotional embrace captured between two people wearing dark clothing.
Two people share an intimate hug outdoors near a residential building.

When Corey turned back to him and opened her eyes, the expression on her face said it all—pure surprise and joy. Adrian’s heartfelt proposal was met with an immediate “yes!”

The moment was filled with love, excitement, and even a few happy tears. I took a series of photos capturing Corey’s reaction and that perfect moment of Adrian down on one knee, surrounded by the beauty of the historic site.

A couple looks down at something being exchanged between them in front of shrubs.
A joyful embrace shared between two people in dark clothing.
A tender moment captured as two people embrace in front of a grey house.
A romantic moment shared between two people wearing dark clothes outdoors.

The couple radiated happiness, and it was such a joy to be part of their story. After the proposal, we wandered the grounds for a relaxed and intimate session. The love between them was undeniable in every shot, from the tender glances they shared to the excitement of their engagement. One of my favorite images from the day is a close-up of the beautiful ring—a symbol of their new chapter together.

A diamond engagement ring sits in a blue velvet ring box held by hands.
Person in black sweater shows emotional expression outdoors.
A couple shares an intimate moment among autumn foliage.
A happy couple shares a lighthearted moment outdoors.
A couple shares a joyful moment together with twinkling lights in the background during an engagement photoshoot.

As a special touch, Adrian had arranged for family members to join them afterward. Their loved ones were eager to celebrate and share in their joy, and we took a few heartfelt family photos to close out the session. The smiles on everyone’s faces were a testament to how much love surrounds this couple.

A small group poses together outdoors for a casual family photo against greenery.

Adrian and Corey’s proposal was a dream to photograph, and I’m so honored to have been part of this unforgettable day.

From the thoughtful planning to the beautiful moments shared with family, it was a storybook proposal in every sense.

A couple laughs together while sitting outdoors during a candid engagement photo session.
A woman in black laughs with joy while looking at her hand in an outdoor garden setting.
A happy couple poses together in black and white for an intimate engagement portrait.
A couple embraces in front of a textured wooden door during their engagement session.
A couple shares an intimate moment while looking at something in their hands.
A couple shares a laugh while holding hands during their engagement photoshoot.