Melanie reached out to me with a heartfelt plan: she wanted to surprise her girlfriend, Morgan, with a proposal while visiting Colorado—one of Morgan’s favorite places in the world. The timing made it even sweeter, since Morgan had recently proposed to Melanie at the Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico, and Melanie wanted to create a moment that felt just as meaningful and uniquely them.


As lovers of hiking, the outdoors, and spending time with their dogs, Melanie knew she wanted to include all of those elements. The two had already agreed that neither wanted a traditional, down-on-one-knee proposal, so Melanie decided to write Morgan a letter instead—an intimate, thoughtful way to express her love.


On the day of the proposal, they headed out for a hike with their dogs at Dawson Butte Open Space Park in Castle Rock, Colorado. I followed behind at a distance until Melanie handed Morgan the letter. As Morgan read, emotion quickly filled the quiet trail, and I captured the moment Melanie asked her to spend forever together.


They celebrated with champagne as the sun set, ending the evening beneath a glowing full moon—one of those rare, peaceful Colorado moments that feels almost unreal.


Morgan and Melanie’s proposal is a beautiful reminder that the best engagements are the ones that reflect who you truly are. Whether it’s a hike with your dogs, a handwritten letter, or a favorite place that feels like home, the most meaningful moments are always personal.


Planning a proposal in Colorado? I’d love to help you document it in a way that feels natural, intentional, and true to your story. Reach out anytime to start planning your own unforgettable moment.