When a Vacation Turns Into a Smoky Mountains Engagement

January 31, 2025

How It All Started: A Facebook Post with a Big Dream

Michael posted in a Facebook group looking for a proposal photographer in the Smoky Mountains. He sounded like such a fun and kind person! As soon as I saw his post, I felt excited and wanted to be the one to help him plan the perfect surprise proposal in the Smokies. I’ve photographed many surprise proposals and weddings in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area, and I knew I could help make his moment truly special.

The Plan: A Surprise Proposal During a Family Photo Session

Michael called me a few days later, and I could tell right away how much he loved Miranda. He shared how his family had booked a big cabin in the mountains, and family members were coming from Miami and New York to spend time together. Since everyone was already gathering, he thought it would be the perfect chance to ask Miranda to marry him.

We decided to keep the proposal a surprise. So, the plan was to tell Miranda that her brother-in-law had booked a Smoky Mountains family photo session. That way, she wouldn’t suspect a thing!

Picking the Perfect Proposal Spot in the Smokies

Michael also shared how important it was to have Miranda’s grandparents there. We talked about a few beautiful locations for the proposal—like Cades Cove, Foothills Parkway, and the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook.

Since the roads to Cades Cove can be curvy and long, we chose a spot closer to town: the Gatlinburg overlook, which is easy to get to and has stunning mountain views. Plus, they had a dinner celebration planned afterward at a cozy Appalachian restaurant nearby!

Proposal Day: Cowboy Hats, Mountain Views, and Spring Vibes

The day of the proposal was beautiful—warm weather and the mountains were starting to turn green for spring. I always get to the location a little early, and when the family pulled up, I was blown away by how stylish they looked! Some of the guys were wearing cowboy hats, and I thought, “This is going to be such a fun shoot!”

The Big Moment: She Said Yes!

We started with small family group photos. Then I said it was time for the big group shot. That’s when Michael turned to Miranda, held her hands, and started telling the story of how they met. Then he got down on one knee and proposed!

It was so sweet—Miranda was crying happy tears, and everyone was cheering. It was such a joyful moment!

A Smoky Mountains Surprise: A Bear Sighting!

And just when we thought the moment couldn’t get more magical… someone yelled, “Bear!” We all turned and saw a real bear walking across the road, slowly eating leaves. It was the perfect Smoky Mountains surprise to end such a beautiful and emotional proposal.

Planning a Proposal in the Smokies? Let’s Make It Happen!

If you’re planning a surprise proposal in Gatlinburg, looking for a Smoky Mountains engagement photographer, or dreaming of a romantic proposal in the mountains, I’d love to help capture your story.

Based in Knoxville, TN, I specialize in Smoky Mountains proposals, destination engagements, and wedding photography across Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and beyond.

Let’s talk about your dream moment. I’m here to help with planning, location scouting, and capturing every emotion of your big day!