As a Charleston proposal photographer, I was honored to capture some of the most incredible, emotional, and beautifully planned proposals in Charleston, SC, throughout 2024. From the sandy shores of Folly Beach to the charming cobblestone streets of downtown Charleston, I documented over 20 surprise proposals, each uniquely special and filled with unforgettable moments.
Charleston is one of the most romantic places to propose, with its breathtaking scenery, historic charm, and stunning waterfront views. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate beach proposal, a grand setup with family and friends, or a quiet moment in a historic park, Charleston has something for every couple. I hope these proposal stories will inspire you as you plan your unforgettable moment in this beautiful city.
Here are some of my favorite proposals from this past year in Charleston, SC!
Luis went all out to create a picture-perfect proposal for Corey at Magnolia Plantation, one of Charleston’s most stunning venues. He scheduled a private tour, so they had exclusive access to the grounds, something I always appreciate at Magnolia, as they have a dedicated coordinator on hand to help make everything seamless.
As they arrived at the iconic white bridge, surrounded by lush greenery and reflective waters, Luis got down on one knee. Corey’s reaction was priceless, and the backdrop was magical. After the big moment, they celebrated with a bottle of champagne, soaking in the excitement before we explored more of the gardens for engagement photos.
White Point Garden is one of the most classic places for proposals in Charleston, SC, and Chris & Lola’s moment there was unforgettable. Under the picturesque gazebo, Chris popped the question, and Lola had the cutest reaction, overcome with surprise and joy.
After the proposal, we wandered through the park, capturing sun-soaked engagement photos with Charleston’s historic homes and waterfront views in the background.
Christian’s proposal was personalized to perfection! As a result of his collaboration with Propose Charleston, he created a setup that reflected their love story, including a custom-made table made from his old skateboards and her favorite candy.
Christian got down on one knee on the sands of Isle of Palms, with family secretly watching from a distance. It was a heartfelt moment, and Sarah’s reaction was pure joy. I loved working with Propose Charleston on this one. If you want a stunning, personalized proposal setup, they’re excellent at bringing your vision to life!
Jamie planned a quiet, romantic proposal in Hampton Park, one of Charleston’s most peaceful green spaces. Though the day was overcast, their smiles and excitement lit up every photo. We strolled through the park afterward, capturing joyful and intimate moments.
A charming white fence covered in ivy framed Zach’s surprise proposal to Lindsay in Old Town Mt. Pleasant. It was priceless watching her reaction when she saw me there, capturing the moment!
Afterward, we stopped by The Post House, a local gem with a light blue-trimmed exterior that made for the cutest engagement photos.
Jake & Amber’s proposal took place on Chalmers Street, one of the most iconic cobblestone streets in Charleston. The golden-hour sunlight was hitting just right, making for some of the most dreamy, romantic proposal photos.
After the big moment, we explored more of downtown, visiting some of my favorite hidden spots for engagement photos.
Proposing at Folly Beach with the Morris Island Lighthouse in the background was perfection! Paul & Kiowa embraced the windy beach weather, creating beautiful, dramatic photos with ocean waves, rolling dunes, and driftwood adding to the scenery.
Shem Creek is one of the best locations for a true Lowcountry proposal. With boats docked along the waterfront and marsh views all around, Brandon’s proposal to Maddie felt so relaxed and natural, a perfect reflection of their easygoing love.
This proposal was so beautifully personal. Matt arranged for the Peace Love Petals flower truck to be set up just for Lindsay, where she thought they were making bouquets together. Little did she know, her family was secretly watching nearby! Matt dropped to one knee as she admired her flowers, and her reaction was absolutely priceless. When her family ran out to surprise her, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight! The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island provided the most breathtaking setting for this unforgettable moment.
Brad and Katelyn’s sunrise proposal at Brittlebank Park was picture-perfect. He told her they were taking family photos, so she was shocked when he proposed! Afterward, we captured some gorgeous photos with the morning light reflecting off the water.
This proposal was one for the books! Jackson planned to propose on Chalmers Street, and a torrential downpour hit just minutes before. But instead of letting it ruin the moment, they embraced the rain, dancing through the cobblestone streets, absolutely drenched but completely in love.
We met again the next morning, but, believe it or not, it happened again! Still, these two were all smiles, proving that the best proposals are about the moment, not the weather.
TJ pulled off the ultimate surprise by secretly flying in while Sarah was on a girls’ trip to Charleston. With the help of her friends, he got her to the beach, where the Morris Island Lighthouse was in the background, where he was waiting to propose. The excitement on her face when she saw him was priceless! As if that wasn’t sweet enough, their adorable dog wore a bandana that read, “Mom said YES!” It was a heartfelt moment, followed by the most joyful celebration with her friends.
A proposal by the water is so romantic and peaceful, and that’s exactly what Nick planned for Nicole at Waterfront Park. The moment was intimate and filled with joy, followed by a relaxed stroll along the waterfront, where we captured some timeless engagement photos. Her ring was uniquely beautiful, and she couldn’t stop admiring it throughout the session!
White Point Gardens has always been a dreamy location, and Tanner’s proposal under the iconic gazebo was nothing magical. Kylie was utterly emotionally overwhelmed, smiling through happy tears as she said, “Yes!” After taking in the moment, we wandered through the historic streets of Charleston, capturing even more photos in some of the city’s most scenic spots.
This proposal was straight out of a storybook! Vincent and Chelsa walked hand-in-hand down Longitude Lane, a charming, historic alleyway lined with brick pathways and lush greenery when he suddenly got down on one knee. Chelsa’s reaction was pure joy! She looked stunning in a white dress and a chic headband, which made for effortlessly romantic engagement photos. Afterward, we explored downtown Charleston, taking advantage of its iconic backdrops.
Matthew planned a classic, timeless proposal at White Point Gardens’ gazebo, one of the most beloved spots for proposals in Charleston, SC. Julia’s pure shock and excitement were so fun to capture. She immediately FaceTimed family, snapped selfies of the two of them, and showed off her gorgeous ring! The joy on her face was contagious; honestly, I could have taken photos of them all day!
Middleton Place is one of Charleston’s most picturesque wedding venues, and it set the stage for Nandin’s lovely and meaningful proposal. Deep in conversation, the two were sitting on a bench when he got down on one knee. It was such a quiet, intimate moment, yet full of raw emotion. Afterward, they changed outfits to honor Nandin’s heritage, incorporating cultural elements that made the photos even more personal and memorable.
Proposing before a romantic sailboat ride? Talk about a dream proposal! Danielle surprised Emily with a private sailing date and popped the question just before they set sail. The moment was so full of love, and the excitement in their eyes made for the most stunning engagement photos on the boat. The Charleston harbor as a backdrop? Absolutely perfect!
Jenna and Jeff’s sunset proposal at Folly Beach was the definition of romantic. As the sky turned golden, Jeff led Jenna toward the Morris Island Lighthouse overlook and, with the ocean waves in the background, asked her to marry him. It completely caught her off guard! The warm golden hour light made their engagement photos glow, creating the most magical images.
Another gorgeous beach proposal, but with a fun twist! Julia was so overwhelmed with excitement that she kept staring at her ring in complete disbelief. To celebrate, they popped a bottle of champagne right there on the beach, toasting to their future. The pastel sunset colors in the sky were the perfect finishing touch.
Hampton Park’s lush greenery and quiet charm made for the perfect setting for Lucas and Alba’s proposal. Alba was so surprised when she realized I was there capturing the moment! The way the sunlight filtered through the trees gave their engagement photos a warm, dreamy feel.
Matt proposed under the White Point Gardens gazebo, and they truly soaked in the moment together. Just as we started taking engagement photos, rain began to fall, but luckily, we had a clear umbrella on hand, making for some incredibly romantic pictures in the rain!
A simple yet significant proposal, Matt and Allie enjoyed a quiet moment in White Point Gardens before he got down on one knee. They were beaming as we explored downtown Charleston, capturing photos showcasing both their love and the city’s charm.
Mike’s beach proposal included their adorable dog, which made it even more special! Proposing by the ocean at sunset is always a good idea, and the vibrant sky that evening made for breathtaking engagement photos.
Not sure where or how to propose in Charleston? I can help! I’ve photographed dozens of surprise proposals, and I know all the best locations, timing, and tips to make sure everything goes smoothly.
From scouting the perfect spot to coordinating the right time of day for the best lighting, I’ll guide you every step of the way. If you want to include a unique setup, family surprises, or even your dog, I can help make it all happen!
One of the most important moments of your life deserves to be captured beautifully! Whether you’re planning a grand, elaborate setup or an intimate, quiet moment, I’d love to be there to document it all.
Let’s chat if you’re considering proposing in Charleston, SC! I’d love to help you plan the perfect moment and create photos to let you relive it for a lifetime.
Click here to inquire about booking your Charleston proposal photography session!
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