So, we knew our trip to Africa would be filled with awesome photography opportunities, but what we didn’t realize was that we were going to have the chance to photograph our first proposal!

Nate and John shared a car with Thomas and I. Over the course of the trip, we got to know them quite well. We learned a lot about their relationship, their careers, their goals, and what had brought them on this adventure. It was clear that they both cared so much about each other.

Nate pulled me aside during a meal and said, “I’m going to propose to John at the end of the trip…at the top of Table Mountain” and immediately I lit up with excitement! Of course, we had to be somewhat sneaky with any conversation about it…so for the time being Thomas and I stayed in the dark.

A few days later, it was our last night in Drakensberg. Thomas and I were in the lobby of our hotel with Kim, Brittany, and Rezzy playing Pandemic (typical) as the storm clouds rolled in. Alana came over and said, “Nate’s going to propose tonight!”

“Tonight? I thought he was going to propose in Cape Town?”

“No. Tonight. I had to get him to bump it up because John told me he was going to propose to Nate in Cape Town!”

Pure panic and excitement set in at once. Alana took care of logistics while the rest of us finished our game (we won that round) and grabbed our cameras.

We all met up for drinks and headed down to see the sweet chapel and watch the ominous thunder clouds roll in. We all took turns getting photos in front of the gorgeous backdrop, and when it was Nate and John’s turn, Nate got down on one knee.

It was such an exciting moment – and so special to be a part of it. We all celebrated that evening – toasting to Nate and John and their life together! Congratulations you two!! I’m so happy for you both!