Last fall, I had the absolute joy of photographing Greta and Nate’s couples session during peak autumn vibes, and it was a blast. That’s when we realized we actually attended the same college and even knew some of the same people. Small world, right? Their story goes back to when Greta was a hockey cheerleader, and Nate was a student manager for the hockey team. That classic college romance energy, except this one stuck and kept growing. Fast forward to this spring: Nate slid into my messages with the plan of all plans—surprise wedding proposal photography. I was so damn pumped to help him pull this off. There’s just something about being trusted with moments this big—it’s equally nerve-wracking and insanely rewarding.

Planning the Perfect Minneapolis Surprise Wedding Proposal

When Nate first told me he wanted the proposal to have a city vibe, I was like, “Yep, I know just the spot.” We both landed on St. Anthony Main—it’s basically the Minneapolis starter pack with the skyline, cobblestone, and that unbeatable river view. It’s classy but still chill, which felt exactly right for them.

The day couldn’t have been more perfect. Warm spring air and sun out just enough to make everything glow throughout the city. The lighting was exactly what I needed for capturing all the little details Nate was hoping for.

Because Greta knows me (and would’ve clocked me instantly), I had to pull full-on spy mode. At one point, she almost saw me, so I ducked behind a random car, probably looking sketchy as hell to everyone else walking by. Worth it, though—nothing like risking looking like a weirdo in public to keep the surprise alive.

The Proposal Moment

Nate led Greta right to the perfect little spot at St. Anthony Main, and it felt like the universe lined everything up just for them. The sunshine was warm, the city was buzzing but not too loud, and the whole vibe was a mix of calm and electric. Photographing the raw emotion of surprise, laughter, and tears is the reason I love doing this work. You can’t fake those moments, and I get to freeze them forever.

It hit me then how full circle their story was—from college days with hockey games and cheerleading to this huge milestone in their favorite city spot. Their history folds neatly into the next chapter. And being there, tucked behind my camera, I felt so honored to capture every second of it.

For more like this, see this surprise proposal photoshoot!

Wedding Proposal Photographer in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Ready to lock in your own big moment—whether it’s wedding proposal photography, engagement, or just some fun couples photos for an excuse to get dressed up, let’s make it happen.